Woman This Month - January 2012

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES

woman this month

January 2012 | Issue 107

JANUARY 2012 ı NEW YEAR, NEW YOU ı www.womanthismonth.com

New Year, New You

A Bright Start for 2012

The Parental Resolutions Fresh Ideas for Mums and Dads

home subscribers copy

Shoe-Boot Mania

The Perfect January Staple

A Year in the Stars

Bite This Bucket-List

ISSUE 107

Predictions for 2012

www.womanthismonth.com

A Foodie’s Must-Have for the New Year

contents | January 2012

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Shopping 08 This Month’s Most Wanted: Watch Those Resolutions 10 Squares and Stripes: Fashion Does Geometry 12 Shoe-Boot Mania: Fancy Footwear

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Features Women of Inspiration: 14 Cabin Crew Turned Inventress 16 Young and Restless: Wafa Takes on the World 18 10 Tips: How to Achieve Greatness

Fashion

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38 Fashion Forward: New Year, New Style 40 Fashion News: The Bulletin Briefing 44 Fashion Feature: Find Your Angle

Fitness 20 Brand New Bahrain: Fitness Day Out Report

Beauty 48 News: January Picks 52 Fragrances: New Year, New Scent

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Wellbeing 54 Campaign: Make a Difference 56 Feature: Wake Me Up!

Parenting: 60 Feature: Parenting in 2012 63 Column: Resolve to do More

70 JANUARY 2012, issue 107 Dunnes Stores have got cool down pat.

More inside!

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES

JANUARY 2012 | Issue 107

New Year, New You

Regulars 06 68 70 72 80

Write Here, Write Now Travel: Must Sees for 2012 Recipes: The Foodie’s Bucket-List Horoscope: 2012 Predictions Columnist: Wendy Syndrome!

A Bright Start for 2012

The Parental Resolutions Fresh Ideas for Mums and Dads

Shoe-Boot Mania The Perfect January Staple

A Year in the Stars Predictions for 2012

Bite This Bucket-List A Foodie’s Must-Have for the New Year www.womanthismonth.com

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| January 2012 | woman this month

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44

Welcome

responsible editor Jubran AbdulRahman

chairman & publisher George F Middleton

publishing director

David M Robertson

editorial consultant Dr Paul Balles

editor

NATASHA BIRD

contributors

Dr Claire McInroy george r vaughan James Claire

staff writers

Elma Bartholomew Maryam A. Toorani ALISON COLDBRIDGE

Find

that Spark E D I T O R ' s l etter

M

uch as the millennium had people worrying that a technology bug would shatter all of our systems and leave us in turmoil, so the advent of 2012 has been a cause for some concern.

The Mayan calendar predicts that, at the end of 2012, some cataclysmic event will wipe out the human race as we know it. While I don’t generally put much faith in this sort of superstition or premonition, I think that there is certainly something that we can take from this feeling of apprehension. If we aren’t sure about the future, it becomes all too important to make sure that our life in its present state is what we want it to be.

If, looking back over the last 12 months, or even the last 12 years, you feel that there is something missing from your list of achievements, now is the time to make a pledge with yourself to do it.

This doesn’t have to mean taking a risk, such as jumping out of a plane or climbing Everest. It might have more to do with being the sort of person you can be proud of. Let 2012 be the year that you become the best possible version of yourself. Dig deep, find that spark, be a good friend, a dedicated lover, an equal partner, a strong example and, most of all, be good to yourself. Indulge in things that make you happy, put aside time to spend with those that bring you joy, work hard but don’t overdo it and enjoy life with every month that passes.

This issue is the New Year, New You issue. Inside, you will find a great array of fashion tips, self help articles, female inspiration and parenting advice. Everything you need to make 2012 count!

Natasha Bird Editor

print production manager Sabu Sebastian

layout & graphics RODOLFO A. REYES JR. Dalal Al-Sabbagh RomEO San Miguel

media coordinator SARAH ANSARI

media executives ESKY Girmay SHANI DAVEL

sales manager Mayukh Majumdar

circulation

FAWAZ AL BALOOSHI

photography editor anil Ravi Shankar

photographers

Shankar Kunhambu Subeesh Kumar NS

printing press

Union Press, Bahrain Contents copyrighted 2004© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 woman this month is for women in Bahrain wishing to celebrate a unique cosmopolitan lifestyle and community spirit in an objective and proactive manner.

For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request.

Please e-mail sales@womanthismonth.com.

The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at the address below. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. bahrain office address Red House Marketing p.o. box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: editor@womanthismonth.com website: www.womanthismonth.com published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ, Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing, P. O. Box 224, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain

For of the moment news, tips, advice and fun links, follow Woman This Month on Twitter

@WomanThisMonthB 4

| January 2012 | woman this month

Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

Letters

Write Here Write Now STAR LETTER Live Like There’s No Tomorrow

My regards to the team of Woman This Month. While browsing through December edition of the magazine, I came )BSE IFBEFE 8PNBO across “The End is Nigh�. The 8 excitement of New Year filled my bones as I read the article. The write-up is remarkable. The concern about whether 2012 will be our last one is very pervasive and it is something we have all been thinking about.

With a continuous feeling of alarm and apprehension about Bahrain, due to all the unrest, this article was a great antidote.

It lightened my mood and made me think of life in a more relaxed way. The magic of the article is its enthusiasm; it challenged me to follow my dreams. It redefines the phrase “every cloud has a silver lining�, in order to help us realise the worth of every moment on this earth.

The writer cleverly concludes with mixed feelings and keeps us wondering what might happen next and encourages us all to go out there and get what we want.

There are so many dreams waiting to be fulfilled. It was an amazing boost for the coming year. Heena, by email.

8P.FOUBMJUZ

5IF &OE JT /JHI hen I call my mother every New Year’s Eve, she always says: “I just don’t know where the year has gone.� Apparently, the years go by faster for her than for the rest of us.

Had she lived in Bahrain this past year, 2011 could not have gone by fast enough. It was a year we have simply had to endure since February.

Most of us, at some point, came to terms with the idea that 2011, in Bahrain, wasn’t going to be the year we wanted it to be.

And so we enter 2012. This year, the phrase “Happy New Year� will be shouted with more than just a little joy and anticipation. “H.N.Y. my BFF’s� and may the following twelve months be filled with everything you want from life.

It had better be! According to the Mayan calendar, 21.12.2012, is supposed to be the date marking the end of our planet. Although we might all be a touch sceptical about this sort of declaration, sometimes it can feel like it might be worth living each day as if it were your last.

And who’s to say that it isn’t? Over the last decade, it has felt a bit like the earth is pitting itself against us. Tornadoes have raged with destructive force, earthquakes have caused Tsunamis which have wiped the earth clean of entire cities. The force of the planet seems to be getting stronger, volcanoes have shut down airspace numerous times in the past few years and wreaked havoc with entire industries. Is this the year we all go up in smoke? And if it is, how should I spend the twelve month countdown?

Personally, I’d prefer to take my entire life’s savings and spend the last 300 or so days left on the planet aimlessly wandering it, seeing as many cultures and cities as possible. I’d buy those Prada skirts and dresses I always wished I could afford, buy the shoes I dream will make me a tall strutting goddess and accessorise with the handbags of the rich and famous.

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Send your letter to editor@womanthismonth. com, by fax to 17 813-700 or by post to PO Box 20461, Manama. The star letter will get the chance to attend three free classes of their choice at Life-Fit — the brilliant lifestyle and fitness centre in Budaiya. Choose between Zumba, Dance-Fit, Boot Camp and many more!

| January 2012 | woman this month

5IF 5SFBUNFOUT PG

$ISJTUNBT

4. The soothing cucumber eye gel

7. The detoxifying floral steam treatment

This treatment will give you instantly brighter eyes. The cucumber calms and cools tired eyes by soothing the eye contour and simultaneously encouraging plumper skin, so that you look and feel fresher throughout day four.

Blend quarter of a large cucumber until a little pulp is left.

Transfer into a glass bowl and mix in one ounce of aloe vera gel.

Gently apply to the under eye area.

Heating the facial skin with hot steam opens all of the pores, allowing for all the dirt to be removed. As well as being a great detox treatment, the process will also calm you.

Drop some lavender flowers into a large pan of warm water and add a few drops of lavender, patchouli and tea tree essential oils.

Heat the ingredients for a few minutes and pour into a large bowl.

Cover your head with a towel and lean over the bowl to breathe in the aroma for about 10-15 minutes.

8. The gentle hair remover Waxing can be expensive and painful and, quite frankly, something entirely unenjoyable! This treatment uses only natural products that are good enough to eat, and allows you to take your time in the comfort of your own home.

Dust the area to be waxed with cornstarch.

Mix together the juice from half a lemon, one cup of sugar and quarter of a cup of honey in a glass bowl and microwave for two minutes.

Stop and stir the mixture every 20-30 seconds and then let it cool down until gently warm.

Use a wooden stick to spread a thin layer onto your skin.

Cover the mixture with a strip of cotton fabric and stroke the strip in the direction of the hair growth.

Pull the skin taut and rip away the strip against the direction of the hair growth.

"MJTPO $PMESJEHF 4BJM UISPVHI $ISJTUNBT TNPPUIMZ CZ USZJOH TJNQMF USFBUNFOUT UP FOTVSF ZPV SFNBJO DBMN BOE GSFTI UISPVHIPVU UIF FOUJSF GFTUJWF TFBTPO

5

he Christmas period can be a rollercoaster of emotions and activity. Over-indulging and extensive socialising can leave even the keenest shopper and hard core partier feeling exhausted. You need to make sure that you take some time to pamper yourself so that it really does remain the season of goodwill! wSimple beauty remedies can have a huge impact on you both internally and externally, and, let’s face it girls, sometimes we do just need to spoil and beautify ourselves.

The Woman This Month team has selected 12 treatments for the 12 days of Christmas to ensure you stay looking and feeling fabulous.

Best of all, the treatments are all at-home remedies, so you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your own house.

1. The glowing honey and apple face mask Start off the 12 treatments with a face mask that simultaneously moisturises, cleanses, removes 62

dirt and fights against premature signs of ageing. The honey exfoliates the skin whilst retaining moisture and the apple gently hydrates and tones for an instant glow.

Blend an apple and add two tablespoons of honey.

Refrigerate the mixture for ten minutes.

Pat the mixture onto your face lightly and leave on for 30 minutes.

2. The voluminous banana hair mask Your hair needs deep and attentive nourishment in order to become supple, shiny and strong — just what you need for all of those Christmas events you have coming up. Bananas are great for softening hair whilst promoting growth by soothing the scalp.

Peel two bananas and puree them in a blender.

Add three tables of mayonnaise and one tablespoon of olive oil.

Apply to the hair and leave on for 30 minutes.

3. The relieving lemon hand cream As the two external parts of your body that do the most work, your hands need special attention. So on day three, wrench them out from the washing up bowl and massage them with some of this relieving hand cream.

Peel one banana and blend.

Add four tablespoons of honey, three tablespoons of lemon juice and two tablespoons of margarine, and blend until smooth.

Rub mixture onto hands.

Leave overnight.

5. The cleansing blueberry toner Blueberries are one of the strongest sources of antioxidants, which effectively neutralise damaging free radicals that can create skin cell damage and premature skin ageing. This toner will clear skin for a smooth and undamaged complexion.

Blend three tablespoons of blueberries.

Add half a cup of sour cream or plain yoghurt.

Refrigerate for one hour.

Apply to the face and leave for 15-20 minutes.

6. The firming egg anti wrinkle cream Surprisingly, egg whites act as a mask upon the skin and encourage firming and tightening of the facial skin. This cream is ideal as a quick fix on day six and helps minimise visible signs of ageing.

Beat one egg white until crisp.

Blend in two tablespoons of cucumber juice, one tablespoon of lemon juice and one tablespoon of rum or brandy.

Keep the mixture in the fridge for two hours.

Massage into the face and neck, leave on for 15 minutes and rinse off.

9. The healing peppermint lip scrub The harsh winter weather conditions often prompt chapped and sore lips which need tending to. Take day nine to get lippy; scrub away the dry skin and build up and soothe the under skin with calming oils and Vitamin E. Pour half a teaspoon of brown sugar and half a teaspoon of caster sugar into a bowl.

Add a few drops of peppermint oil, almond oil and Vitamin E oil.

Dab a small amount onto the lips and rub together to gently exfoliate.

Leave for a few minutes and then wipe off.

10. The divine Champagne bubble bath Champagne is always a treat and an even bigger one when you are bathing in it. This remedy has to be the ultimate in luxurious relaxation, giving you an excuse to soak and a chance to unwind on day ten.

Heat water and stir in quarter of a cup of foaming soap concentrate and one tablespoon of glycerine until completely dissolved.

Add quarter of a teaspoon of champagne fragrance oil and half a teaspoon of salt and stir.

Allow mixture to cool and then add to your bath.

| December 2011 | woman this month

11. The energising ginger skin crème One of the most festive spices is a wonder for skin. Ginger invigorates and boosts circulation in the skin so that your complexion is smooth and glowing, giving you the appearance of vitality (even when you aren’t feeling it).

Grate a two-inch piece of fresh ginger and squeeze over a small glass bowl to extract the juice.

Add in two teaspoons of light sesame oil, two teaspoons of apricot kernel oil, two teaspoons of vitamin E oil and half a cup of cocoa butter.

Heat the bowl until the cocoa butter has melted.

Let the mixture cool and then apply to the face.

12. The brightening nail treatment Women can often end up being the ones chained to the kitchen stove during Christmas and day twelve’s treatment gives your hardworking fingers that little bit of attention they really deserve.

Saturate one denture tablet with a few drops of essential oil.

Drop the tablet into a small bowl of warm water.

Soak fingertips for ten minutes. woman this month | December 2011 |

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A Great Variety

I like the article “The 12 Treatments of Christmas�. It was really fun to read and it made it so easy to get involved.

Alison provided some amazing, simple treatments which can help you be a fabulous version of yourself. The remedies were all very straight forward and easy to make at home — such fun!

I also thought the “Health in Check� article was really informative. Thanks to Dr. Shahid for stressing the need for regular medical checks as so many women neglect to do this and it can lead to bad problems down the line.

I love the magazine. Keep it up!

Samina, by email.

The only hiccup with that thought, though, is what happens on the 22nd of December? What if the world does not end? I would have been the silly one, having spent a life’s savings. I would have no house and be broke, only to have to work and toil away the rest of my days because I went wild and spent everything in 2012. Mind you, I would look fabulous while doing it!

But on the other hand, if I save my cash, stay in my job and continue paying the mortgage and the world ends on 21st December, then even the aliens in outer space are going to be laughing at my stupidity. Who, having had centuries of forewarning about the world’s end date, would continue to bank their cash in full and not have as much fun as they possibly could? As they say: “You can’t take it with you.�

So what to do? The same as every other year, month and day I presume. You see, even though this time we have been given a precise date, the fact is we could be on a countdown today or tomorrow or any day. We never actually know when the last day could be for any of us.

Why should we wait to live life? You don’t have to be utterly frivolous and illogical about it, but you can be sensible and at the same time make an effort to do something fun and enjoy yourself each day that you have.

Live every day with no regrets. Do it your way, ungoverned by the pointless rules of others. Be free in mind and spirit and do that which challenges you, excites you and makes every day worth waking up for.

Do it for yourself. You are the Queen of your world. Whether today, tomorrow or December 21st 2012 is the last day, live life to the fullest, be responsible and let whatever happens, happen.

I’m off to put a deposit on a sexy little mini skirt I’ve had my eyes on for weeks.

Happy New Year girls!

| December 2011 | woman this month

WRITE IN AND WIN

6

8FMMCFJOH

Fitness Fun for Everyone!

I attended the Woman This Month Fitness Day Out on December 10 and I just wanted to say that it was a really great day. The event was really unique and unlike any that I have seen or visited in Bahrain before. I think it is so great that WTM was putting effort into helping the women in Bahrain achieve their health and fitness goals.

I enjoyed taking the free Zumba class — the instructor was really lively and it was a good workout. I also liked looking around all the stalls and testing out the beauty, spa and nutrition products.

I really hope that WTM does more of these events in the future as I think it was a really worthwhile day and should definitely be repeated. I would definitely come again!

Sarah, by email.

Shopping

NEW THIS MONTH Time for the New Year It’s 2012 at last. The turkey leftovers have all been gobbled up and you have partied your socks off in celebration of all that the New Year will bring. It’s time to start paying attention to your resolutions, so how about starting with being everywhere on time? You’ll probably need a brand new watch for that!

Very.co.uk

Piaget. A vailable in Moda Mall

Next. Available in Bahrain City Centre

D&G. Available in Moda Mall

Michael Kors. Available in Bahrain City Centre

Gucci. Available in Moda Mall.

Longines. Available at Modern Art Studio on Al Khalifa Ave.

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Bvlgari. Available in Moda Mall

Shopping

Squares &

Pied a Terre at House of Fraser

Rectangles W

hat other way to bring in the New Year than with a dabble in fashion’s most daring designs. The likes of Holly Fulton and Mary Katrantzou have inspired a wash of futuristic and architectural designs.

Geometric shapes are appearing all over the fashion spectrum, from panelled evening dresses to casual skirts and t-shirts. Look for bold colour blocks and stick to the more simple shapes and lines.

Kenneth Cole at House of Fraser

Jonathan Saunders at Debenhams

New Look

Asos

Marks and Spencer

Missguided.co.uk East

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Shopping Dune

Alexander McQueen

Christian Louboutin

Dorothy Perkins

If the Shoe-Boot Fits Shoe-boots have been all the rage for absolutely ages and our lust for them isn’t looking to die down any time soon. So many designers and brands have invested heavily in the shoe-boot with some truly unique designs making their way into a store near you. We are especially loving the fetish-inspired creations— buckles and studs a plenty!

Pilot

Carolina Herrera Shoe Zone

Louis Vuitton

New Look Next

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Relax and Play

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Interview

From

In-flight to In-vent Gaynor Morgan speaks to Annabelle Godwin of her journey from Gulf Air Stewardess to inventress of one of the most useful female products on the market.

G

aynor Morgan is something of a phenomenon. At the age of 20 she decided to up and leave the safety of the UK to take up a position as a Gulf Air stewardess in Bahrain. Although many women have made similar decisions before her, it is what she did with the opportunity that really strikes a chord among the ambitious and independent women among us.

It is fairly common for women in the Gulf to slip into a well-paid position, especially one with the benefit of travel, and to stay in the same job for a decade without noticing the time pass. While this is a fine idea if it suits you and keeps you satisfied, there are others who use

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| January 2012 | woman this month

these sorts of jobs as a platform or leverage to further themselves even more.

Not satisfied with remaining a member of the in-flight crew, Gaynor decided to look at what else Gulf Air might be able to offer her. “Gulf Air has one of the toughest training programmes for safety and survival”, she recalls. Speaking of this training, Gaynor says, “It taught me a great deal about discipline and self-control”.

Her career progression within the famous airline didn’t stop there, however. Within four years Gaynor was promoted to purser in charge of cabin crew flying on B737 B767 and L1011 aircrafts. She continued in her

role of safety and survival instructor at the same time.

“Gulf Air made me who I am today”, says Gaynor.

“It taught me management skills, which I still use today in my own business. It shaped the way I am now able to deal with all sorts of people from all walks of life”. During her time at Gulf Air she came in to contact with the full spectrum of humankind.

“One day I would be serving a Royal and the next I would be interacting with a labourer who earned about 50BD a month for hours of arduous work”, she remembers. This experience proved entirely invaluable.

“Now, dealing with large retail stores and distributors with C&G Medicare Ltd., I need the best sort of negotiating skills. Living in Bahrain, dealing with tricky customers and haggling in the souk gave me a great head start!”

Unfortunately for Gaynor, although her career in Bahrain had been looking to bear some exciting fruit, the region hit troubled times and her situation changed. Her time in the Middle East was interrupted by the first Gulf War, during which she helped evacuate passengers to safer, nearby countries. “After the Gulf War things were very difficult for everyone in Bahrain,” says Gaynor, “Bahrain changed, leaving many local people jobless. Gulf Air were encouraging Bahrainis to apply for jobs within the airline. All the expatriates holding teaching positions in the safety school were made redundant.” After a stint as an English teacher for the British Council, Gaynor realised that her career in the Gulf was drawing to a close.

Although she didn’t immediately move back to the UK, she still made regular trips back to the place of her roots. It was during one of these visits back that she became inspired to embark on the most important venture of her life. “My mother Carole had started having problems with incontinence around the age of 40. At 45 the incontinence was such an issue she had the TVT operation (a procedure to help women with stress incontinence). Although this worked on a temporary basis, a few years later the symptoms returned”, she explains. Gaynor, witnessing her mother’s embarrassment, set about trying to find a solution.

Millions of women experience incontinence, largely due to insufficient strength of their pelvic floor muscles. Some may lose a few drops of urine while running or coughing, while others may feel a strong, sudden urge to urinate just before losing a large amount. Many women experience both upsetting symptoms.

Incontinence can range from slightly bothersome to totally demoralising and, for many women, the risk of public embarrassment stops them enjoying many activities and impacts on their quality of life.

Additionally urine loss can also occur during sex and cause tremendous emotional distress.

As incontinence isn’t a life threatening condition, very little money is spent on research. The most common solution offered for incontinence is pads, which only hide the problem but never solve it. Gaynor and Carole were looking for a more permanent solution.

Carole and Gaynor began brainstorming. During one of their discussions about the intricacies of the condition, Carole mentioned that the problem was not so bad when she was menstruating. After some research they discovered that when Carole wore a tampon it went some way to support the urethra and the exerted pressure was able to gently suppress the loss of urine, while not interfering with the normal flow.

Knowing the dangers of using a tampon outside the recommended period they decided to look for a re-usable tampon. There was nothing available, and so they made their first working prototype in 1998.

Testing the design, “she started doing star jumps in the middle of the kitchen,'’ says Gaynor, “and though she had a full bladder, she didn't leak at all. ‘It works, it works!’ she yelled. She wore it every day after that, and started to go out again without the slightest leak.”

Gaynor financed her business with savings earned with Gulf Air. The product they developed grew from strength to strength. What started as a daughter’s attempt to help her mother with an embarrassing condition has now won many international awards [DASH] and has transformed the lives of thousands of others who suffer from incontinence and pelvic floor weakness.

Gaynor works on a personal level with her distributors, ensuring that the right information and advertising is given. She supports them in promotions and raising awareness about the incontinence issue and has been commended by her government for the amazing work she is doing.

For more information visit www.incostess.com woman this month | January 2012 |

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Interview

Young, Fun and

Totally in Charge

Woman This Month Editor Natasha Bird chats to journalist, designer and talented entrepreneur Wafa Alobaidat about creativity, social media and the key to early success.

P

ost millennium we have seen a wonderfully steady increase in daring, young entrepreneurialism. This is fantastic because it means that the shape of modern business is continually transforming.

The success of the latest generation of super-youths is largely down to a clever ability to take advantage of new media environments. Social networking, digital artwork, viral advertising — these are the key components of efficacy in the 21st century.

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| January 2012 | woman this month

There is a dangerous trend, though, that sees new media as an exclusively “young� concept. If older businesses are to compete with their younger rivals, they are going to have to get on board, but can you really teach an old dog new tricks? I sat down with Wafa Alobaidat who, in her early 20s, has already set up and oversees popular niche magazine Sketchbook and runs successful design agency Obai and Hill, to talk about her own achievements and the need for better understanding of social networking and digital design in Bahrain.

Tell us a bit about your businesses: I set up Sketchbook magazine in 2009, after having worked for a number of luxury magazines, including Vogue China. I just felt that there was something missing in many of these high-end magazines; something that was going unexplored. I think that interactivity is really important and I was getting frustrated by the need to conform to strict word counts and space allowance. I wanted to find a way to marry blogging, social media, art in the city and fashion under one roof, so to speak. I used my experience from my art degree and we got people to draw and sketch some of the most current and respected voices — Susie Bubble, Henry Holland, the Sartorialist, for example. It was creative and, incidentally, it was also one of the cheapest ways we could have chosen to be productive! I think part of Sketchbook’s success is down to sheer determination and persistence. I met with at least five people a day for about a year.

Obai and Hill grew organically out of the process that I had started with Sketchbook. People began requesting the illustrations. They wanted us to make t-shirts, cards, invitations and eventually advertising packs. I saw a new gap in the market and I moved in to fill it. I set up an agency which concerns itself with graphics, illustrations, websites and design consultancy.

How do you think your youth has affected your work?

In the beginning it was really hard. Website designers and illustrators would laugh when I asked them to work for me. I had to do a lot of problem solving. I had to convince hundreds of people to put their faith in me and do work for free. I began emailing people so that they wouldn’t see me face-to-face and underestimate me. I had to be proactive about it and I didn’t let myself get fazed by people not being interested. I’d just say, “Okay, thank you for your time, don’t worry if it’s not for you”.

But I always wanted to do it this way. I know that in my 20s I have the most energy and passion that I will ever have. I needed to set up my businesses quickly so that I could develop the brands and maintain them.

What do you think explains the success of your two businesses?

With Sketchbook, we aren’t in the business of telling people what to do.

We ask them what they would like to do for us. It is about celebrating people’s unique individualities, the talents that make them special. Once you take an interest in someone else’s work, they become incredibly willing to go above and beyond for you. We ended up receiving some of the coolest and most unique content, purely because we took the time to check out their previous work, their blogs and their interests before talking to them.

Obai and Hill is willing to take on all sorts of challenges. We have helped to shape brands, providing them with fun newsletters, advertising packages and web designs. We’ve produced custom t-shirts, put tearaway lyrics on canvas bags. It’s a constantly creative process and it generates a different, interesting impression for companies.

What do you think of Bahrain’s relationship with online technology?

I still feel that people in Bahrain tend to be relatively uneducated about what PR and social media is all about. They don’t often look past the basics and people see it as a luxury rather than a necessity. There is a bit of a cultural gap. Islam is a very reserved religion and people worry about too much information being disseminated, but there are ways to prevent things being out of your comfort zone and, at the end of the day, if you don’t embrace these sorts of online advances, you’ll be left behind.

Online tools are completely invaluable. Sketchbook is available online, in PDF and in print, we have our own online video channel and we keep track of all our users and subscribers via Twitter or Facebook. Content can be offered in so many different ways, so why not take advantage of all of them? People love new and different experiences — it keeps them hooked.

What do you reckon is the most useful online tool?

Twitter, without a doubt. It gives you the fastest record of response. You can tell very quickly whether an idea is appealing or destined for success. People love to feel like they are being heard. We had a follower who kept sending us Twitpics of her artwork as she developed it. I didn’t know what to make of it at first, but it turned out to be dedicated to Sketchbook and we loved it so much we did a whole piece on it for the blog! It also gives you an amazing, direct access to many of your idols and allows you the immediacy of being able to see what other creative people are up to at any time.

It’s not too difficult to get the hang of Twitter. You just have to be willing to give it a go.

Do you think online resources will eclipse print publishing?

No, I think they work hand-in-hand. I read about ten to 20 blogs a day, but I don’t keep them or go back to them. Whereas I love to buy Brownbook, Monacle, Wallpaper or, of course, Woman This Month.

Sometimes you want to collect things and savour them. Print is a different experience — there is an association with quality and durability.

I make room for both print and online publications in my life.

Final message?

The online world has changed, in fact made, my career, My experience wouldn’t have been possible without all the amazing online resources.

So my advice is to always have an online strategy. Don’t be left behind, assuming social networks are just for young people or personal use. Get with the programme! woman this month | January 2012 |

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10

10 Tips

Steps to Greatness

Believe it or not, everyone has the potential to achieve greatness.

Here are 10 ways to tap into and channel your strengths for success.

Elma Bartholomew

1. Identify your goal

6. Surround yourself with positive people

2. Plan it out

7. Face your challenges

This is the most significant step. Everyone has a different vision of success in life. Do some self-reflection to decide what is most important to you. Think big and aim high. Be ambitious and break out of your comfort zone.

It doesn’t really matter what you’ve chosen as your true calling. Your next step is to form an action plan for achieving this goal. It may take a lifetime, but the only way you’re going to get there is by thinking ahead.

3. Think possible

You are limited by what you think you can do. You never know what you are capable of until you do it. Don’t give yourself excuses. Be positive, go ahead and just do it.

4. Think less, do more

You won’t get anywhere by daydreaming alone. You need to take some powerful action to get there. Greatness isn’t just going to fall in your lap.

5. Baby steps

Yours might be a very intimidating and daunting task. But it doesn’t have to be when you divide things into small, manageable steps. It’s vital to take life day by day and, at the same time, keep the bigger picture in mind. This way, you’ll build momentum without getting too overwhelmed. Remember, baby steps add up, become habits and build confidence and certainty.

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When you have someone you can look up to and model yourself on, you’re bringing yourself one step closer to your target. It’s always better to be in the company of those who can inspire, motivate and encourage you.

It’s common to face setbacks. Things are not always going to turn out like you expect, but that is part of the journey. When you hit a snag in the road, you need to pick yourself up, change course, and move on.

If it has got you down in the dumps, take a short break, then get back on that horse!

8. Be passionate, be enthusiastic

Enjoy what you do. Be focused. Do your work every day and be down-to-earth. Do not think of what you can get in return for any task. When you give your best, the rest will take care of itself.

9. Perseverance is key

Achieving greatness is a continuous journey. There is no real destination. Working consistently and persistently is the way to go. It is about working hard and working smart over a long period of time.

10. You are already there

Every once in a while, it’s important to take a step back and reflect.

Are you enjoying your life? If so, then you’re actually already living your dream. Remember, all you’ll ever have is the present moment. If you like where you are and where you’re going, greatness is already yours.

WTM

A Brand

New Bahrain

Woman This Month strives to inspire the female population of Bahrain to get fit, healthy and feeling great! Here’s a look at our brilliant December Fitness Day Out.

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alking up to the roof of the InterContinental Regency in Bahrain, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were about to spend the day lazing around by the glistening waters of their enormous pool, basking in the warm glow of the winter sun and enjoying the soothing sound of the poolside music and the gentle breeze as it seeps through the bamboo wall coverings. Think again. At the Woman This Month Fitness Day Out, rest and relaxation was not the aim of the game!

The team over at the Red House offices had an entirely different idea in mind for this particular sunny Saturday. Armed with a good sports bra and some shiny new trainers, the women who attended the fitness day out got a healthy dose of freebies, fitness and a whole lot of fun!

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The Fitness Classes The WTM team put together a stellar line-up of FREE classes, instructed by some of the best

and most experienced personal trainers from a variety of great venues in Bahrain.

To kick off the day, we started with an excellent Yoga and Pilates breathing class from Rasila Savani. We moved on to an extremely useful physiotherapy class from VLCC gym — which taught us how best to prepare our bodies and muscles for cardiovascular activities and how to stretch them afterwards in order to prevent stiffness.

Some Good Old Cardio Towards lunchtime, we cranked it up a notch by getting stuck into some cardiovascular exercises. The wonderful ladies from Fitness First taught a high-energy, motivational “body attack” class, wherein they had us jogging, squatting, dancing and whooping with delight

Get Your Groove on!

It wouldn’t have been a women’s fitness day without some dancing now would it? To satisfy all the women out there who love a good boogie, we had not one, not two but THREE dance-style fitness classes! The gorgeous Adriana Costa from Life-Fit in Budaiya came and gave us a latin and aerobics inspired Dance-Fit class, to the sound of some seriously catchy beats. Then later on, we hosted an overwhelmingly popular Zumba class, brought to us by the wonderful Dessange. To finish off the day, we were delighted to take part in a fun-filled salsa class, taught by Ali Madan from Pars Hotel. Ali and his beautiful assistants had us shaking our hips, wiggling our thighs, jumping, clapping and grinning from ear to ear — we couldn’t recommend the experience more!

as we worked up a sweat. They followed this with a great “body balance” session, to soothe each muscle group.

Other cardio and toning classes included the innovative Tabata interval training session from Kate at Kinetix, Elite Seef Residence; a fantastic and truly enlightening Shotokan Karate session from Sensei Amr and Debbie Al Asfoor over at the Bahrain Karate Academy; a

good and gruelling power abs class from Ryan at the InterContinental Regency and an extremely exciting and terribly fun jumping class from Alina Comanici at Kangoo Jumps.

We had a great time watching Alina and her jumping girls strap on their special boots for a demo by the pool and it was even more delightful to be able to join in her special aerobics routine afterwards in the studio.

While You Were Waiting As if a day of free fitness sample classes wasn’t enough! Whilst the women at the event were waiting for one class to finish and the next to start, they had the fantastic opportunity to wander around, having a look at all the stalls. We brought you some of the most experienced experts to talk about nutrition, spa treatments, new machines, personal training, sportswear and, if you were very lucky, to treat you to a free sample massage The Diplomat, Sofitel and Regency were all present to lead you through a variety of health and beauty treatments, such as the Sofitel’s thalassotherapy massages and the Diplomat’s incredible menu of facials.

We also had a beautiful, specially designed and built woodland scene from the lovely ladies over at Flo Motionwear, who were present to show us their trendy fitness threads, perfect for day or night.

Nanda and Binu from Gulf Pharmacy had a range of products for you to test out and talk about and Sheikha Lulwa from Equilibre spent the day being an absolute saint — offering us samples of her green tea sweeties and her fresh fruit arrangements..

We even had the amazingly stylish girls from Toni & Guy salon come along to show us their GHDs, great products and to demonstrate some cool hair styles on their models.

Until Next Time…

We have had some amazing feedback from many of the women who attended our first EVER Fitness Day Out! Thank you to everyone of our fantastic clients for your participation and your continued support.

We hope to see even more of you next time, for some more fitness fun in the sun! woman this month | January 2012 |

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Social Butterfly Debbie Al Asfoor, Shaikha Fajer, Shaikha Haya, Alison Coldridge, Anne Middleton & guests who attended the event

WTM Fitness Day Out

On December 10 Woman This Month hosted an amazing one off event at the InterContinental Regency. The Woman This Month Fitness Day Out was a day-long combination of fabulous FREE fitness classes from some of the best and most experienced instructors in the region, coupled with some exciting fitness demonstrations and heaps of great stalls, offering health, fitness and product advice. Everyone who came left with a grin from ear to ear!

Binu, Amal, Rafiya & Nanda Kumar

Shubha

Julie & Lubna

Ameena & Habiba

Cap Pauline & Aliona

Justine & Gillie

Kim, Justine, Karen, Amby & Liezyl

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Sita, Andrea & Wafaa

Rose, Joseph & Babie

Haya & Amani

Lubna, Adriana & Rose

Debbie, Wafaa, Loubna, Sadeqah & Ilhem

Marianna, Alina, Samar & Oana

Louise, Sue & Deanne

Mrs Kanoo gets a massage, seen here with Anne

One of the classes in session

Esky & Natasha

Shani & Lavina

Blessy & Anna

woman this month | January 2012 |

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Showcase

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

A Sea Break

Whatever your dermatological needs are, Sofitel’s exclusive sea-water treatment spa will be sure to satisfy them, thanks to a huge range of packages and experiences to choose from.

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ofitel's Thalassa Sea & Spa is a blissful world of complete tranquility. Entering into the spa, you are instantly engulfed by a sense of calm which stays with you throughout your experience. Sea views surround the treatment rooms and soft aromatic scents fill the air.

The spa is entirely unique to Bahrain, and offers treatments that are innovative and effective.

The component around which all of the products and treatments are centred is sea water; the sea contains all the trace elements, minerals and vitamins that are vital to the balance of our body and Sofitel’s Thalassa Sea & Spa harnesses these active ingredients to be absorbed by the body. The result is all-encompassing — a more balanced, healthy and serene you with smoother, clearer and glowing skin.

You can take advantage of the spa’s treatments through a number of packages available. Each package has been designed specifically to achieve a different goal and you are entitled to free access to the wellness area; indoor seawater and infinity heated pools, steam room and sauna.

Exquisite beauty breaks If you are feeling slightly un-radiant and need some sprucing up, chose a Beauty Break package. Be ‘Simply Spoiled’ in a three-day programme where you will be cleansed in the under water shower massage and body scrub, followed by complete relaxation in aqua

yoga and a full-body massage ending with a deep cleansing purifying facial and a head massage.

Or indulge in an oxygenating break for the senses, where you will spend two and a half hours undergoing an O2 intensive oxygenating facial, plus an oxygen bubble body treatment by the Spa’s brand of choice, Aquascience.

Let’s not forget that men also need some pampering. They can select the ‘Gentleman package’ — a specialised treatment inclusive of a deep hydrating facial and an invigorating body scrub, followed by an anti-stress body massage to ease muscular discomfort. Or take advantage of a couple’s pampering package, which is the most romantic way to spend a day, with a body scrub, massage, deluxe facial and some tea to finish up.

Renewing marine breaks If you want to completely unwind, the ‘Absolute Rejuvenation’ is a comprehensive package that allows you to select the three treatments you have. Decide between an underwater massage, body scrub with Vichy shower, hydro massage bath and hydro body mass.

Just what you need Aside from the pre-formed packages, you can of course book any one of the beauty expertise facials, body treatments by Aquascience, marine scrubs and wrap experiences, massages and spa essentials — which are all perfect for slotting into an hour’s gap, targeting the specific area that you feel needs revitalising. Call 16 636-363.

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now open Thalassa sea & spa at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq first hotel in the gcc to offer thalassotherapy relaxation & rejuvenation at “sofitel Thalassa sea & spa�

Thalassa treatments are based on seawater & sea products. The sea contains all the trace elements, minerals and vitamins that are vital to the balance of our body.

The extensive Thalassa sea & spa complex covers 2,000 square meters. The complex features 14 treatment rooms, seawater hydrotherapy, massages and wellness programs. Facilities include a seawater hydrotherapy pool, a freshwater pool, saunas, steam rooms, hairdresser for men and beauty salon for women.

105 Zallaq HigHway, Building 2015, Block 1055 Zallaq TEl : +973 17 636363 For rEsErvaTion : +973 17 636391 E-mail : h6722@sofiTel.com www.sofiTel.com

www.Thalassa.com

Thalassa sea & spa, The wellfare brand of accor group. 16 ThalassoTherapy and spa desTinaTions in france, iTaly & morocco

Showcase DESSANGE

The Complete Works Gianne Middleton heads to Dessange for a complete head-to-toe makeover. Here’s her full report…

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s the new-year rolls in, rich winter temptations are poised and ready to undo the hard work we have put in during the summer months. However, instead of lamenting that extra mince pie you scoffed, take the time to allow yourself to indulge and reflect in the positive accomplishments of last year. Why not start 2012 as you mean to continue — by being really, really good to yourself!

When it comes to attention, relaxation and pampering, I was lucky enough to be given the full works! The Dessange Paris Health Club is a real gem. Nestled in the bustling streets of Adliya, this oasis of calm is a treat for all the women who enter. To start the day, I was introduced to Marian, my personal trainer with over several years of experience. We began with the power plate, where the goal was to tone my muscles, reduce cellulite and help me lose weight.

While initially apprehensive about using such an imposing looking machine, after carrying out a series of exercises, including 30 second 26

| January 2012 | woman this month

lunges, squats, kicks and planks, I was a total convert. I am a runner who doesn’t shy away from an athletic challenge, however after 30 minutes my heart rate had substantially increased as with any standard circuit-training regime. The power plate machine vibrates at around 900 contractions per 30 second, which intensifies the various movements carried out atop the platform. At the end of the session I was told to lie upon the vibrating plate while Marian intensely massaged both my thighs.

Aside from increasing metabolic rate and improving blood flow, it takes only several sessions for members to see fitness and weightloss results.

Following my workout, I was led to a private steam room where I was treated to a full, authentic 45 minute Moroccan bath, complete with an exclusive range of Moroccan oils, herbs and black soap. A wonderful way to exfoliate the skin, the attendant identified my skin type and then proceeded to use a kassa glove, which you are able to keep with you after the

sessions and re-use upon subsequent visits, to slough away my dead skin. Feeling refreshed, I then experienced an aromatic massage, coupled with the Precious Care facial, an energising ritual using clay and precious stone extracts, which left my skin with a wonderful healthy glow.

My indulgent experience culminated with a combination manicure and pedicure treatment, followed by delicate makeup and an elegant up-do, preparing me completely for a night out on the town. It was a truly brilliant day and the staff showed infinite expertise. So, whatever the New Year brings you, be sure to celebrate its advent with a trip to the wonderful Dessange!

Call 17 713-999.

Showcase

DR. ABEER COSMOPLASTIC CLINIC

Plastic Surgery at Its Best

As the cosmetics field keeps evolving, a new and improved you is only a visit away with Dr.Abeer Cosmoplastic Clinic.

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ver the years, it seems that plastic surgery has become a moneymaking business, rather than a branch of medicine. However, Dr. Abeer Isa Alkebaisi plans to bring it back to its ethical roots.

The former consultant in plastic and reconstructive surgery in Saudi Arabia’s well known Saad Specialist Hospital opened her own clinic in 2009.

Providing individualised aesthetic surgical care, the clinic’s in-house services include chin liposuction, face injections, cheek augmentation or filling, facial filling in general, elevation of the eyebrows, nose job through fillers, lip injection and a wide variety of laser machines. Apart from laser hair removal, using the most up to date technology, the clinic also uses laser machines for skin rejuvenation, resurfacing and weight loss.

“The Ematrix is also an exciting service offered here, by generating heat under the skin, new collagen is created. It’s used for a number of things; including tightening of the skin and reducing stretch marks,” explains the doctor. As part of the Dr Abeer’s awareness initiative, the clinic will be holding a workshop this month, highlighting the benefits of the Ematrix machine.

The latest version of the already well known Vela shape machine is also available; where two types of radiations are used; radio frequency and infrared, along with massage to re-circulate the blood.

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As for the surgical services, she offers head-to-toe procedures, including face and neck lifts, lower and upper lid blepharoplasty, cosmetic breast surgery, breast reduction, rhinoplasty and liposuction.

“The most commonly asked for procedures have so far been liposuction and breast augmentation. As for office procedures, injections and botox are very popular. When a patient comes to me, I consider and analyse their problem, look into the pros and cons of the solution and also what suits the patient best. If someone comes in with an unreasonable expectation then we explain to them that the surgery will affect their health. I’m very selective with my cases. If I know that it may lead to post-surgery complications, then we won’t continue, my patient’s safety comes first.”

Dr Abeer holds her consultations at the clinic and performs her surgeries at the Bahrain Specialist Hospital. The first female plastic surgeon in the region of Bahraini origin, the surgeon completed her medical education in both Ireland and France with three masters’ degrees in burns and the surgical treatment, cosmetic and therapeutic injections and surgical treatments and reconstruction of skin tumours.

Specialising in cosmetic surgery and cosmetic medicine, Dr.Abeer also has an AFS/AFSA France fellowship in plastic and reconstructive surgery as well as an AFRC from Ireland. Call 17 820-988.

FITNESS FIRST

It’s Time for Change

We have all set our goals for the year and topping that list is a reduction of those dreadful numbers on the scale. Hisem Hagras, corporate wellness manager at Fitness First, gives us tips for how to stay loyal to the plan.

How can we stick to our New Year’s fitness resolution?

While you can’t wave a magic wand and make your resolution come true. There are some easy steps to take that will make it easier to fulfil your promise to yourself.

• Choose an attainable goal. Resolving to look like a model is not realistic for most of us, but promising to include daily physical activity in our lives is.

• Avoid choosing a resolution that you’ve been unsuccessful at achieving year after year. This will only set you up for failure, frustration and disappointment.

• Create a game plan. At the beginning of January, write a comprehensive plan. Break it down and make it less intimidating. Rather than one big end goal, dissect it into smaller pieces. Set several smaller goals to achieve throughout the year. This will help you to reach the ultimate goal.

• Make contingency plans. Don’t assume sticking to your plan will be smooth sailing. Plan on hitting bumps along the resolution road and be prepared with specific ways to overcome them.

• Give it time. Most experts agree that it takes about 21 days to create a habit and six months for it to actually become a part of your daily life.

• Reward yourself with each milestone. If you’ve stuck with your resolution for two months, treat yourself to something special. But, be careful of your reward type. If you’ve lost five pounds, don’t give yourself a piece of cake as a reward. Instead, treat yourself to something nonfood related, like a professional massage.

What are the main factors that derail fitness resolutions?

Think SMART — specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely.

For example, losing 30 pounds in a month is a specific, measurable and timely goal, but not attainable or realistic.

Determine goals that meet the SMART requirements, but also identify barriers that may interfere with reaching those goals and draft a menu of strategies to deal with them. Therefore, if you plan to go to a yoga class every Monday and Wednesday, but another commitment suddenly comes up on a Monday, you can use your backup strategy of going to a Thursday class or subbing in a different workout. It helps to be prepared.

The only exercise that you will stick to is the one you enjoy. Make a list of your favourite activities and then incorporate them into your everyday life.

Do you have plans to introduce any sort of new group exercise classes to Fitness First in the near future?

In fact, we have recently launched a brand new class called Tuff. The revolutionary freestyle routine dramatically changes the shape of one’s body through a three dimensional plane utilising 50 per cent bodyweight and 50 per cent barbell or weight exercises. This optimum combination decreases body fat and increases lean muscle tissue, to give the body a chiselled look. The functional training increases overall fitness levels and guarantees personal achievement and satisfaction.

Call 17 564-005. woman this month | January 2012 |

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Showcase KANGOO JUMPS

Minimise Effort, Maximise Enjoyment and Result!

Alina Comanici tells us how to train smarter with the world’s lowest impact shoes!

How would you define the new sport that you have brought to Bahrain?

Rebounding exercise is the most efficient and effective form of exercise yet devised by man”, NASA says. For me, it is more than that. It is part of my life and my soul. Kangoo Jumps is addictive and contagious; once you have joined a session, you will definitely come back! I took one class back home; the next day I ordered my own boots and I have been in love with it ever since! I love Bahrain too, so it made sense to combine both of the two. Here, people deserve the newest and most enjoyable way of exercising!

Why is Kangoo Jumps particularly enjoyable?

It mixes the newest music trends with retro and Latino, whilst boasting a variety of programmes (Kangoo Latino, Kangoo Kick, Kangoo Power, Kangoo Discovery etc..) with the added value of nutritional advice — the recipe for a healthy and fun lifestyle!

How have people responded so far?

“It was such a fantastic workout and so much fun! I felt energised afterwards. What I love is that you are losing weight without feeling like you

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are exercising. A definite MUST!” Mai Al Khatib (writer, Gulf Weekly) said after her first session.

“It is the best workout and FUN at the same time!

I’ve never experienced something like this before.

Everyone can do it and you will feel so happy about yourself! I LOVE it!”, Emma Gustafson, cabin crew, private airline. “I was going to the gym every day to get in shape, but surprisingly I can burn more calories Kangoo jumping”,

Mohamed Abdulaal, managing director, All Food Co. “Kangoo is new to the Bahrain TV screens and has seen a positive response from viewers.

It is enjoyable and effective for all ages”, Samar AlMeer, Amwaj TV reporter.

Call 39 411-407 or visit the Facebook page: Kangoo Jumps Bahrain.

EQUILIBRE

Your Fitness Goal

Well on its way to becoming a staple fitness centre in the Kingdom, Equilibre keeps giving us reasons to stay trim!

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eared for anybody who is looking to get on track towards a healthier lifestyle, Equilibre is launching a unique venture that will surely give women the balance they’ve been looking for.

New individualised package systems are now available, so that gym goers can actually pick and choose what they wish to include in their memberships — this means you only do and pay for what you want to be a part of your individual fitness regime!

“We don’t want the conventional training sessions and classes and our customer’s opinion is always important, so launching this allows us to specifically cater for their individual fitness needs,” says Equilibre owner, Sheikha Lulwa Al-Khalifa.

Each and every one of us has our own set of weight loss or fitness goals, structuring a routine around these goals is vital to achieving them. This new system will allow you to choose

from a personal trainer, classes, Vibrogym sessions or just gym equipment use.

Among the New Year surprises is also an expansion to Equilibre’s luxurious spa services, six month memberships are available, offering a number of treatments like facials and massages, allowing you to save an astounding BD100!

Suspension Training If you’ve always dreamt of being a fitness fanatic but felt that strenuous gym sessions aren’t for you; head down to Equilibre for a quick and easy TRX workout.

The qualified instructors at Equilibre are offering one of the most innovative weight loss techniques. The TRX suspension training gives you a complete body work out in a single session, eliminating the trauma of cardio exercises and weights.

“You can hook up the TRX rope just about

anywhere. It uses the weight of your own body.

The moves will help you tone your body and improve your flexibility and balance,” explains Eunice Njonde, their professional instructor.

Call 77 066-033.

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Showcase THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU RESIDENCE & SPA

Eat Your Way to Good Health Eating healthy doesn’t mean being deprived of great tastes. Head chef Raimund Braun at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Residence and Spa speaks with Elma Bartholomew about healthy food and how it can be yummy.

What is your advice for people who want to eat right? The most important step is to put away the “couch potato” aspect. Forget about the potato chips and spiced-up tortilla chards. Eat some berries, apples or any other fruits you like. Make it a habit to eat that not-so-healthy “soul food” stuff once a week only. Life must be joyful, but choose the right munchies!

People believe that healthy food does not taste good. Is that true?

Totally untrue! Don’t we all forget the spices and herbs that we have?

How about a good pinch of curry powder, a couple of stalks of lemongrass or some chilli or garlic? There are many options in a supermarket aisle alone to choose from to make simple food interesting and flavourful. Does it have to be boring and tasteless? Absolutely not!

How do the kitchens in the Diplomat Radisson Blu tackle this misconception? Every week, we order fresh herbs and spices from all over the world. Freshness and variety are vital. In addition, I do not allow fatty products in my little empire. Oils must be trans-fat free. Any excess fat must be removed from deep-fried items and meats. Of course, marbling in a raw piece of beef is very important, but during the slow cooking process, the fat will melt, giving it the perfect taste which guests expect. The same goes for chicken with the skin after a good old fashioned grilling, BBQ or pan-frying.

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What do you think people need to avoid and add in their diet? Avoid — trans-fats, high calorie foods, heavy late night suppers, rich milkshakes, creamy desserts, junk food, deep-fried foods on a regular basis and sweet soft drinks.

Add — Fresh fruits, whole-wheat grains, vegetables that aren’t overcooked, at least a couple of slices of fish per week, yoghurts, sushi and sashimi, a glass of red wine, and berries, especially strawberries.

For a movie evening, have popcorn, but not the ready-made kind. Pop a fresh batch of natural popcorn and add a pinch of salt.

What are the best natural fat burning foods available? Proteins are the best way to burn fat. Eat fish, chicken, turkey breast, emu steaks, cottage cheese, soy milk and beans.

How many calories must a person consume on average to stay fit?

Rule of thumb — women should keep it at 1200 calories per day; men at 1800.

But, it all depends on your body structure, age and your daily routine.

What are common mistakes people make while dieting?

The yo-yo effect is a common problem. One moment you lose weight; the next you gain again. It’s a mind game. Some of us are lucky and can sustain the lost/gained weight. Losing weight slowly is the best method, keeping in mind that exercise is the key. Call 17 531-666.

PARS INTERNATIONAL Hotel

Get the Party Started From great service to never ending entertainment, Pars International has everything to make your stay in the Kingdom of Bahrain something to remember.

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ne step into the Pars International Hotel and you can already feel yourself being spirited away into a world of hospitality and luxurious living. Recognised as a four star deluxe, this hotel offers you well-equipped rooms, all of which are decorated in warm, contemporary tones, offering a haven of comfort and modernity. Along with a choice of spacious deluxe and standard rooms, the hotel also boasts a range of executive suites for those who wish to indulge in the best of comfort, service and style.

Simple Notes, which will entertain you from 9pm through the night. They boast a wide musical repertoire, ranging from the music of the past decades up to the most popular beats of today. Ladies receive a free drink on arrival on Saturdays. It’s Hawaiian night on Thursdays.

Latin Quarter, on the other hand, is a truly luxurious dine-in venue, featuring a mosaic of tastes through a healthy selection of authentic Latin-American delicacies and luscious cocktails. To make your evening memorable, the resident Columbian band, Sabor Latino, will entertain you with the fantastic rhythms of their irresistible dance music.

Mondays means one thing to this happening venue — Martini madness. Ladies get free, flavoured martinis from 8-11pm. It’s couples’ night on Tuesday; buy two drinks and a third is on the house. Ladies get complimentary mojitos on Wednesdays as its Cuban night and free margaritas on Fridays as its Mexican night.

Recently refurbished and known to be one of the island’s most favourite nightlife hangouts, Z Club and Lounge is perfect for those looking to dive into a world of fun. Chill out on Saturdays as all standard beverages come at BD1.500 all night long. Complimentary martinis make their way to the ladies’ tables on Sundays because on this night, they are keeping it retro. Mondays aren’t called peppermint nights for nothing; ladies, clink your mojitos till midnight as they keep pouring in for free. There’s no better day for a girl’s night out than Tuesdays as the bar gives away free shakes and shooters.

All airline crew are welcome on Wednesdays with free entrance and 50 per cent off on all beverages ‘till their doors shut. Bring on the weekend with a buzz from all the drinks you can have at half the price.

Call 17 814-777.

Dining options For a casual dining experience with the family, visit Parsia. This restaurant serves Middle Eastern and international specialties through an extensive buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You could also choose something from their a la carte menu.

Located on the first floor, Mayan coffee shop and lounge is a cosy venue with lavish interiors and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Meet your friends over a game of pool or enjoy the delectable flavour of a midnight buffet at BD5.

Nightlife venues Boomers, located just off the main lobby, brings you a traditional pub atmosphere with great food, beverages and entertainment to match.

Their popular drinks are available at unbelievable prices, followed by lipsmacking snacks, which include signature dishes like the extraordinary three-cheese nachos, chicken enchiladas, beer-fried prawns and lamb chops with chimichuri sauce.

Enjoy while watching your favourite live sports on specially installed giant screens. Move up front, rock to the sound of the resident band, woman this month | January 2012 |

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Showcase INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY

A Beneficial Indulgence The InterContinental Regency’s spa provides a tranquil experience for the body and mind. Their wide collection of treatments will bring out a more serene you, with soft and supple skin.

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spa experience at the Regency Health Club is not to be missed!

The atmosphere and treatments available will ensure you drift off into a world of blissful serenity.

The spa boasts four treatment rooms, fully equipped with massage tables and a professional therapist. Men and women can both enjoy treatments separately or together by indulging in the new couples massage.

Additionally there are delightfully soothing elements designed to enhance your spa experience — lightly-scented candles, dimmed lighting, soothing music and an adjoining shower room for your convenience.

Before your treatments begin, you will be shown to the sauna and steam room, which you may enjoy for as long as you wish. There is also an outdoor pool to cool off in and plenty of comfortable seating surrounding it.

The spa uses one product line, Spa Siam, which you can purchase and use at home to recreate the experience for yourself. The collection uses pure, natural ingredients, such as exotic botanical extracts, oils and crushed roots to purify, detoxify and replenish the body.

There are plenty of treatments available to suit whichever area you would like worked on. The full-body scrub is a highly recommended procedure that gently removes all of the dead skin on your body and leaves you feeling soft and impeccably smooth. The therapist will begin at your feet and concentrate on each part of the body, finishing with your neck and face. The scrub also invigorates the skin and gets the circulation going, achieving a glowing look. It’s slightly messy, but you

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| January 2012 | woman this month

will be invited to take a shower as soon as the procedure is finished.

Follow the scrub with a full-body massage to get the ultimate unwinding sensation. Opt for a Swedish massage and your therapist will target all of your body’s pressure points to click and stretch everything that needs it! The movements and pressure levels will soothe all aching muscles and stiff joints, leaving your body entirely relaxed. The massage oils will hydrate and moisturise the skin without leaving a sticky residue.

Finally, finish your pampering session off with a facial. The spa uses a five-step facial routine, which is guaranteed to soothe your muscles, brighten your skin tone and clear your complexion. First, the therapist will begin with a massage to relax your facial muscles. Then there will be a deep cleanse to remove all surface dirt and oil, followed by the therapist exfoliating the face gently, but deeply, to thoroughly cleanse the pores. After this, a mask will be applied for a few minutes to soothe the skin and the treatment will be finished with a deep moisturisation to rehydrate the skin.

After your procedure, you will be invited to complete your session with some tea in the relaxation room where you can take it easy before returning to the real world! Call 17 208-355.

Tress TONI & GUY

Chic

Are you so tired of your hairdo that you just hide it away in a bun? Now that Toni & Guy are in town, you’ll have a hundred reasons to flaunt those locks.

B

id farewell to bad hair days and lousy hair styles. One of the world’s leading hairdressing experts is here to bring some pizzazz to your tresses. Yes, Toni & Guy have opened their doors in Bahrain for the very first time. Stationed in Seef Mall (new extension), it is your one-stop shop for anything from a complete makeover to the perfect beauty solutions.

Know it all Let’s face it. One of the many challenges we encounter is getting ready for the day. Their expert team of hairstylists, colourists and makeup artists teach you insider tips and tricks, while they revitalise your professional image.

Have you ever wondered what kind of products to use or what styling tools work best on your hair? These guys have the answers to them all.

They know what hairstyle, colour and makeup compliments your features best.

Toni & Guy offer a staff departmentalised by specialty, in order to provide unparalleled expertise in both haircutting and colouring. With a large variety of styling and chemical services available to suit any hair type or need, they also give complimentary consultations. Represent your company by looking your best for your next presentation, special event or business trip.

Who are they?

Toni Mascolo and his brother Guy co-founded the first Toni & Guy salon in 1963 in Clapham, London, joined later by their two brothers Bruno and Anthony. By the late ‘90s, the company had grown from a single salon to over a hundred in over 20 countries worldwide.

Driven by their philosophy of pushing the boundaries of hairdressing and delivering creativity, quality and consistency to every client, they were one of the first to begin the franchising boom, with the first franchised salon having opened in 1988. The brand has remained at the forefront of the industry, exceeding all standards, to make their knowhow available on a global scale.

They launch a global trend collection every year, directed by global creative director Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck and created by the international artistic team, taking inspiration from international fashion collections and popular culture, forecasting trends that affect the whole industry.

An official sponsor for London Fashion Week, Toni & Guy work with the crème de la crème of the fashion empire, creating the hair for over 60 designer catwalk shows each year. It was voted as a SuperBrand for a fourth time in 2011 and CoolBrand twice (accolades given in the UK) being the first hairdressing company to receive both nominations. Today, Toni & Guy havever 420 salons in 42 countries worldwide. And now they are open right next to you. Call 1700 1700.

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Showcase ELITE SEEF RESIDENCE AND HOTEL

Move Your Body

It’s never too early, nor too late to begin taking care of your body — Kinetix Health Club shows you how.

“The truth about exercise is that there is so much to learn. One way to be sure your workouts are achieving all that they could is to consider working with a trainer. Combining technology with innovation can get results faster than you would achieve independently,” says health club manager Kate Jelley.

Kinetix provides gym-goers with more than just an instructor; their personal trainers can help you come up with the right workout plan to meet your goals. Whether it is losing a few pounds, toning up the arms or flattening your stomach, your workouts are sure to be both productive and enjoyable. Of course, diet and nutrition are also vital and must coincide with your fitness regime. The personal trainers at the health club are also qualified nutritionists that can give you a realistic and manageable plan for you to maintain.

Furthermore, enhance your cleansing and energising routine with a visit to the steam room, followed by a dip in the temperature-controlled pool. Or, relax and socialise whilst having some fresh juice and food from the poolside menu. This is a brilliant way to flush the toxins from your body and increase the sense of mental and physical wellbeing.

With the new modernisation of the health club, which includes a wide range of sophisticated equipment, make sure to head down to Elite Seef Residence and Hotel and visit Kinetix for a tour of the great premises and have any of your questions answered. Call 17 583-388.

T

he New Year is a great chance to take on a fresh start and really think about what you want to achieve in your fitness transformation.

If you are still looking to fulfil your new year’s resolution, then look no further! Join the Kinetix health club at Elite Seef Residence and Hotel and begin that journey.

With Technogym’s most advanced cardio and resistance equipment and programmes; the professional Kinetix team promises you an ideal workout. The gym is further complemented by Powerplates, spinning bikes and an impressive Kinesis Studio.

With Kinesis — a range of strength training machines using wires — you can perform up to 250 different exercises, many of which can be adapted for beginners and advanced fitness enthusiasts alike. They use a cable and floating handle arrangement, which means you can work your muscles in a variety of positions and angles. This produces increased muscular strength and endurance, improved muscular balance, increased coordination with a better core and improved flexibility.

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Fashion

Fashion Fashion Forward Expert It’s the New Year, which means it’s time to leave behind old, tired styles and embrace the future…

The Winter Midi

It’s a difficult length to pull off and possibly more suited to the summer months, but if Sarah Jessica-Parker and Keira Knightly are brave enough to try it, we’re surely not going to be left in their wake? Pick the colour of the season — bordeaux — and stay firmly away from boots if you don’t want to truncate your legs.

Resident fashion expert Natasha Bird takes us through this month’s style highs and lows.

Want It

Brushed metal silver cuffs.

Big, thick, tarnished — it’s all about the armour and chains look this winter.

What’s Hot

Cracked-effect nail varnish.

It’s all the rage and even some of the more economical brands are bringing out a version.

A Mulligan Icon

The British actress Carey Mulligan has been around for a few years and has often been chided for her somewhat dated, librarianesque style. However, in recent months she’s taken it up a notch, experimenting with cuts and lengths and landing herself on the cover of W magazine. Icon status here she comes.

Bin It

Novelty Christmas earrings.

The festive season is over and they were never very cool anyway!

Lace Me Up

Forget shoe laces. Who wears sneakers and trainers to the bar? Not us, that’s for sure. Instead, jump on the fetish and bondage bandwagon and get yourself a pair of lace insert shoes — preferably some that look as though they have been painted on your foot. These Pucci ones are pretty nice.

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C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

The New Bohemian

CMY

K

The bo-ho look is an old favourite, so it is about time it got a revamp. Nicole Richie has adopted a more glamorous, 1920s take on the trend, but the latest thing is to add a dark, slightly fetishistic touch to the look. Try chains, chokers, dark colours, trailing tassels and heavy eye make-up. Just like these Acne styles.

Big and Bold The blazer is here to stay. It fits with all the androgyny and tailoring that we’ve seen seeping into looks over the last season. However, throw the black out the window and embrace a few more hues.

Steer away from pastels and primaries and head straight for deep, darker jewel tones.

Here’s a Reiss offering.

63 woman this month | January 2012 |

Vertical - 253mm x 94mm (h x w)

39

Feature

Fashion

News Bulletins

Bringing you a few nuggets of information from the fashionable frontline…

The fashion world moves at an impossibly swift pace. Designers change their aesthetic, their muse, their colour-scheme at the drop of a hat. Models come and go, their weight fluctuates and they pledge their allegiances

differently depending on the month or the position of the moon! This January, Woman This Month is bringing you a few bulletins to keep you up-to-date with fashion news.

Rihanna and Armani Hook Up! Okay so they aren’t hooking up in any remotely romantic way, so the gossip-mongers can rest easy. Rihanna has agreed to collaborate with Armani on a capsule collection for their secondary lines.

Rihanna is known for her fearlessness when it comes to picking her stage ensembles. She is often seen in the latest of designs and baring rather a lot of flesh at the same time. She is bringing some of her fearlessness, but perhaps less of her penchant for revealing skin to her Armani collaboration. “I have always been in awe of Mr. Armani,” she says of the partnership, “Designing a line with him is something I never imagined”.

The collection embodies modern streetwear — leopard print T-shirts, drainpipe jeans and leather jackets.

Rihanna

The Little Known Felicity Jones Dolce & Gabbana have made a rather unusual choice when it comes to picking a muse for their upcoming campaign. The brand has used a plethora of A-listers in the past, including Claudia Schiffer, Naomi Campbell and Madonna.

It seems, though, that they have decided to take a slightly different tack for their upcoming campaign. They have gone with Felicity Jones, a little known English actress. She has been around for years, but has only just begun appearing in Hollywood features and still goes relatively unrecognised — not for long!

Speaking of the English rose, Dolce & Gabbana say she is, “Representing a heady mix of sensuality, confidence and beauty”.

Felicity Jone

s

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Versace Who? We all waited with baited breath for the Versace for H&M collection to come out — some of us even queued up through the night to be the first ones through the doors. However, it seems that no sooner than the collection hit the shops, H&M were already sealing the deal for another designer collaboration. The next capsule wardrobe is coming from none other than the sultry, quirky brand Marni. Look out for chunky shapes and interesting prints.

Marni

Move over Ms Macpherson Get on your horse Ms Macpherson, there’s a new girl in town. Okay so Elle Macpherson hasn’t exactly been at the forefront of the modelling world for some time, but somehow she has seemed to retain a firm grip on her trademark nickname “The Body”. Up until now, that is. Vogue magazine — largely responsible for dubbing her with that title so many years ago — has bequeathed it to another nude beauty. Karlie Kloss is, apparently, being hailed as “The New Body” after a semi-naked photoshoot in the mag. We’re not sure how we feel about this, as Ms Kloss is arguably a little too thin to be a great role model, but out with the old and in with the new!

Karlie Kloss

All Change for the Mellon Tamara Mellon always has a new trick up her sleeve. She went from burnt out socialite to the founder of one of the most popular and successful shoe brands in the world — Jimmy Choo. Now, though, it seems like it is all change again. She recently allowed the sale of the brand to reach completion, with the assumption that, although the Labelux company would have ownership, she would remain at the fashion house in some capacity. Not so! According to reports she has handed in her resignation and plans to start her own lifestyle brand. Watch this space!

llon

e Tamara M

It Never Gets Old Helen Mirren is something of a phenomenon. She has managed to keep to the very top of the style thermometer, despite getting on in life and without relying on shock tactics like some other ageing celebrities…ahem Daphne Guinness!

The Oscar-winning actress has been widely lauded for her refined, classic and elegant look. She has been named the ultimate style icon among women over 50, beating 1960s icon Twiggy and pop princess Lulu. A spokeswoman for clothing brand Viyella, who carried out the poll, said: “Dame Helen Mirren has as much style, grace and elegance off screen as she does on it and is a fitting icon for the women of her generation.”

Helen Mirre

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Fashion

What the

Stars

Natas

ha Bir

d

are Wearing

It’s 2012! Which means that we need a batch of new celebrity pictures to provide inspiration for the New Year. Here is a selection of your favourite stars!

Elizabeth Olsen Elizabeth Olsen’s sense of style is a far cry from that of her experimental twin siblings. Elizabeth prefers a more classic and pretty look, which we definitely appreciate.

She wore a Valentino 2012 resort dress to the 21st Annual Gotham Independent Film Awards in New York. We like this elegant get-up!

Salma Hayek We weren’t completely enamoured with Salma’s Balenciaga pre-fall 2011 dress. Ms Hayek has a gorgeous, curvy, Mediterranean body, but it sometimes seems as though she doesn’t know how to dress to best flatter or accentuate it. The Giuseppe Zanotti heels are lovely though.

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Sofia Vergara Sophia Vergara is usually one of our biggest style crushes. She has an infinitely enviable, womanly body that she usually cloaks in gorgeous, form-fitting, flattering designs. At the Happy Feet Two premiere, however, she rather disappointed. The Dolce & Gabbana dress is pretty ugly and fits her badly and is too busy when paired with the leopard print Lemaresca clutch.

Blake Lively At Barneys in New York, Ms Lively wowed the crowds with an open-necked purple Elie Saab suit from the spring 2012 collection. We think this look is attention grabbing and stunning. On anyone less lithe and attractive, the suit might have been a disaster, but Blake pulls it off with panache.

Jennifer Hudson Jennifer Hudson, post dramatic weight-loss has been stunning her spectators with some great fashion choices.

At the Swarovski Rodeo Drive holiday lights opening she turned up in a gorgeous Versace fall 2011 coat. Our only wish, though, is that she would have belted it up to hide the pink Alice Temperley dress. The coat stands alone in the style stakes.

Charlize Theron Charlize was by far our favourite look at the 21st Annual Gotham Independent Film Awards. She wore a beautiful 1920s inspired Gucci spring 2012 dress and completed the outfit with an Alexander McQueen clutch. Quirky and classic all at the same time, but the plunging neckline modernises the look effectively.

Alexa Chung Alexa Chung, the veritable style goddess, demonstrated her fashion prowess once again at the British Fashion Awards 2011.

She was honoured with one of their esteemed awards for another year and took to the stage in a spring 2012 Christopher Kane dress, complete with Christopher Kane clutch and Charlotte Olympia kitty pumps.

Jessica Alba At the Swarovski lights opening Jessica Alba tried out a different look to her usual bohemian chic. She opted for a pale Carolina Herrera resort 2012 dress.

The dress reminds us of vintage Chanel and we love it! Her snakeskin Barbara Bui pumps were an interesting choice. She might have done better with some black pumps.

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Fashion

Find Your Angle

Women come in all shapes and sizes. Dressing for your body type is important, but can be extremely difficult during the winter. Here are a few tips for figuring it out!

The winter months mean more layering, thicker fabrics, large overcoats and an abundance of accessories. Whilst it is great fun to pile up these purchases, we can often loose sight of snappy dressing to suit our particular figures. Lots of uncalculated layering can swamp a woman’s figure. Woman This Month has pulled together a selection of looks for four different body types, to help you figure out your winter dressing.

Rectangle

Carolina Herrera

Versace

Warehouse

Versus Coast

Celine

e

Miss Selfridg

Carolina Herrera

R

ectangle shapes are those with slightly boyish figures. This often means that they have a lack of definition in their torso— no boobs, hips or spare tyre to speak of! In order to give a boyish, straight torso the illusion of more femininity, there are a couple of fairly easy steps to take.

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Try separating the top and bottom halves of the body by wearing a separate colour on each. Cinch in the waist with a slim, coloured waist belt and look for dresses that accentuate the hourglass shape — Carolina Herrera has a gorgeous selection of shifts that are just the ticket!

Top Heavy Triangle Top Shop

Monsoon

Camaieau

Gap

Gap

J by Jasper Conran at Debenhams

S

Ralph Lauren

o many women fall into the top heavy category.

This usually means that they are carrying a bit of weight on the upper part of their body, or it means that they have been endowed with rather large breasts. Many women wish to downplay the extra bulk that they carry on the top halves of their bodies.

This is simply done.

The easiest method is, of course, to wear a darker colour on your upper half. Don’t be boring though — be sure to pick something snazzy for the lower half, otherwise you won’t be having any fun at all! Other tips include wearing a minimising sports bra to suppress the appearance of cleavage and popping on a nice, simply cut, boyfriend style blazer.

Reiss

Massimo Dutti

woman this month | January 2012 |

45

Fashion

Bottom Heavy Triangle Banana Republic

Coast

Hoss intropia

Carolina Herrera

Betty Jackson at Debenhams

Dorothy Perkins

B

Koton

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| January 2012 | woman this month

ottom heavy women are those who have been blessed with a skinny little upper half, but tend to carry a couple of saddle bags in the hip, thigh and buttocks department. Have no fear ladies, nobody is perfect!

The best way to hide the lower bulk is to pick slimline cuts and shapes for your lower half. A pencil skirt in a thick, dark fabric is a good choice and some peg leg or harem pants are also a good option as they taper in to reveal slimmer ankles, rather than hanging down at the same point as the thickest part of your legs. Draw attention to smaller torsos by opting for decoration and embellishment around the neckline of your outfits — pick a fun necklace or a pussy bow blouse!

Christian Louboutin

Broad Sided Square Oasis

e

Miss Selfridg

Versace

Hoss Intropia

Massimo Dutti.

Chloe

S

Camaieau

quare women are often also labelled “apple” body types. This just means that they carry a little bit of weight and lack definition in the torso and upper thighs.

Layering is a square woman’s best friend, so winter is a blessing in disguise. However, don’t go layering crazy — too many garments and you will swamp what little definition you do have! Go for jackets and waistcoats that have tailored, nipped in waists. These will accentuate your figure whilst also breaking up the shapes of the upper and lower halves of the body.

Wrap dresses are a great way to go as they can turn shapeless bulk into curves that are gorgeous and feminine. Play with accessories — these can be a great focal point for an outfit!

Betty Jackson at Debenhams

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Beauty News

Beauty

It’s the New Year and time for you to think about rejuvenation and a revamped look! Here are some products to help you on this quest.

Peacocking Around

Peacocking is a term we usually use for parading ourselves and our assets in front of potential mates.

In this case, though, we are not just referring to this act, but also the gorgeous tone of Inglot’s winter matte eye shadow. This gorgeous shade will certainly help you to snare the person you desire.

Available at the Inglot boutique in BCC.

Express Yourself

Revlon have been an economical beauty staple for some years. They are the brand you’d go to if you just wanted something standard and simple. However, this winter they have really pushed the boat out for their Expressionists range. We love the plummy colours and the addition of some sparkle. An eveningwear delight!

Available at leading retailers.

Care and Condition

Prep + Prime Future Length Lash Serum from MAC is a breakthrough lash treatment that uses naturally derived ingredients to add a thicker, fuller, healthier look to your natural lashes. It actually promotes natural hair growth, so you can hope to see your own lashes take on that super plump look of a fake set. Available at the MAC store in BCC.

Natural Nourishment There is a new craze hitting the beauty salons globally — the benefits of Moroccan Oil are revelatory! With a basis of Moroccan sourced Argan oil, slicking a pea sized amount of this serum through your hair, poststyling, will leave it feeling smooth, looking shiny and smelling amazing!

Available at select hair salons.

Oh My Gosh

Gosh cosmetics have brought out a sultry new nail polish collection, perfect for all the parties in the New Year. Choose from a brilliant variety of cool colours and shades and don’t forget to check out their latest product — the cracked nail effect collection. Available at Ruyan Outlets, Faces, Beauty bay and others.

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Flashy Lashes

Fake eyelashes are everywhere these days.

Many celebrities don’t leave the house without them and all salons seem to offer some sort of lash extension treatment. But if you are going to go down the fake route, why not take it to the max? Zink lashes have some extremely luxurious, voluminous, colourful and fun varieties.

Available on Amazon and Ebay.

Showcase

Nail that Look RUYAN GROUP

Every girl knows that a nail colour could make or break your look for the day. Makeup experts, Gosh, have some wild and bright options for the bold amongst you.

W

ith Gosh products having made it to the makeup rooms of the contestants of the popular reality show, X Factor, the glitz and glam seems to have been picked up on stage and beyond. There is no way one could have missed the sparkle at the tip of Kelly Rowland’s fingers during her role as a judge on the exciting show.

Get the X Factor look today with Gosh nail glitter that comes in 10 different shades, so you can play around with it like Rowland did when she sported one pink nail amidst a pool of turquoise.

Wild claws Have you been pulling off the prim and proper look for far too long? Bring on the wild side and get your claws on the cracked nail lacquer from Gosh, which gives a shattered-nail effect.

It’s really simple. Apply any colour of nail polish and wait for a few minutes. Then apply the cracked nail lacquer on top in one thick stroke.

Watch the nail polish ‘crack’ after 30 seconds, giving it an edgy look.

This is available in four exciting colours — black, pink, gold and silver.

These amazing products are available at Beauty Bay, Lifestyle, Ruyan outlets and Lulu Hypermarket (Dana Mall and Hidd branches).

Call 17 731-316.

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MINERAL WATERPROOF EYE SHADOW

Beauty

January

Fragrances The start of 2012 signals an end to the old and a welcoming of the new. Why not complete the transition with a fresh new fragrance?

Expect the Unexpected

Embodying the heart, spirit, and soul of the classic fragrance house, Fan di FENDI is a brand new fragrance, a decidedly fresh, fun, sexy, modern floral with a slightly unexpected leathery heart. The fragrance opens with fresh and fruity pear, tangerine and pink peppercorn, which then give way to a floral heart of rose and yellow jasmine.

Available at Fendi stores and select department stores.

Get Noticed!

CK One has been around for decades, but Calvin Klein is always at pains to up their game. The CK One Shock for her is a bright, passionate blend of pink peony and poppy, with darker notes of narcissus, cocoa and jasmine. The base notes of musk, vanilla and patchouli give it a pleasant, heady feel.

Available at leading retailers.

California Girl Next Door

Jennifer Anniston, everyone’s favourite girl next door, has released her debut fragrance. It is a nice, neutral blend of citrus grove, rose water, blooming jasmine, wild violets and Amazon lily, with base notes of musk, amber and sandalwood. It is designed to conjure an image of wood fires at friends’ houses and summer days at a California beach.

Available at Sephora.

The Only One

Guess Seductive I’m Yours is an ultra-sexy fragrance for the mischievous woman who loves to explore her feminine prowess [DASH] hence it is a favourite of ours!

It delightfully contrasts yummy florals with luxurious musks and woods. The dewy peony and sharp passion fruit add an unexpected twist!

Available at leading retailers.

Hidden Desires

Forbidden Euphoria is another Calvin Klein masterpiece scent. It houses a lovely blend of sparkling mandarin, peach blossom and iced raspberry, while infusing the mix with tiger orchid, cashmere woods and patchouli. Be daring, go for it!

Available at leading retailers.

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Campaign

Making a Real C

Difference

A soon-to-be launched youth service programme for children seeks to redefine the way community service is known and practised in the Kingdom.

ommunity service will soon be made mandatory for all higher secondary students across Bahrain. Given that students are already running out of ideas concerning how to spend their community hours, the Kingdom needs to devise ways in which its youth can make a meaningful contribution to society.

Hala Ali Al Khalifa, the executive director of Wish Child Welfare charity, has come up with a winning idea. Hala is unveiling a pilot programme that involves mentorship of orphans and single-parent children by high school and university volunteers in Bahrain.

The programme targets children aged between six and 12, who will be provided academic and community support in form of weekly mentoring sessions and community outings.

Wish You Service Programme (WYSP) is

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Bahrain’s first mentorship programme and, arguably, also the first in the region — with the exception of Mentor Arabia Lebanon, which primarily works for drug prevention among youths.

“Students taking part in the Wish You Service Programme (WYSP) will have the opportunity to help shape a child’s future for the better, by empowering them to achieve their true potential,” says Hala, founder and programme coordinator for this initiative.

She recalls the perplexity of several friends and cousins who wanted to do something worthwhile during their community hours, but couldn’t accomplish much, primarily due to a lack of options in Bahrain.

One friend would walk the dogs at a pet care centre, while another littered the beach just so that he could “clean” it later to clock up his

community hours.

Having lost her own father at the age of 18, Hala is only too aware of the turmoil faced by orphans and children of single parents.

“In our society, children commonly face financial constraints once the father is gone. Moreover, if the mother takes up a job to support her family, she spends less time at home, which means that these children get more lonely and emotionally vulnerable,” she observes.

The project is in collaboration with the Royal Charity Organisation (RCO), which will coordinate the children of single parents and orphans with the Ministry of Education. The RCO is currently involved in the lives of around 5000 orphans across Bahrain, a large percentage of which are children.

What it Means

Mentoring is essential for orphans and singleparent children, who are impressionable and always on the lookout for a role model. They seek someone they can trust, look up to and build a relationship with, but may be held back by family problems, emotional problems and behavioural issues.

At present, eight of Bahrain’s top schools affiliated with International Baccalaureate (IB) foundation have a Community, Action and Service (CAS) programme that’s compulsory for all Grade 11 and 12 students. Under this programme, students must complete a minimum of 150 hours of Community, Action and Service over the two-year course, in order to graduate in Grade 12.

The WYS pilot programme will be launched in the beginning of the academic year 2012 at a private school that currently runs an IB programme. Students who want to be mentors will be shortlisted through an application and interview process, depending on their academic performance, personality, behavioural traits and other interests.

The ten children will be matched with their mentors, who will spend around four hours every week with them, participating in various group activities and community outings.

Mentors will engage children in creative pursuits such as dabbling in ceramics, or swimming, tennis and Karate classes. Through tie-ups with various foreign embassies, WYS children will be introduced to multiculturalism and will get to attend cultural events at the Italian, British and Pakistani embassies.

Environmental activities will include tree plantation and visits to the Al Areen Wildlife Sanctuary with mentors.

School-based mentoring is one the fastest growing forms of mentoring in the US today.

The Big Brother Big Sister programme has been a huge inspiration for Hala, although she maintains that Wish You Service is different.

The WYS programme is all about handholding and support without the involvement of any donations, unlike the Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) initiative, where volunteers give away books, toys and cash to help the children in need.

“Unlike in the BBBS, where the children are left totally under the care of their big brother/ sister, we’d like to have some boundaries in the way children bond with their mentors. A counsellor will remain present through all group activities, supervising and evaluating the progress of the child as well as the performance of the mentor,” says Hala.

The number for the pilot project has been limited to ten in order to preserve the intimacy

of the programme. At the end of six months, the mentors will be evaluated on their performance based on various criteria and the top performers will be recognised in a final ceremony.

“At the completion of the pilot programme, we aim to expand the project to include all public and private schools and maybe even university students. In future years, we hope to launch another mentorship programme for special needs children,” she adds.

Handholding in Academics

For children who need help in academics, their matched mentors will take them through a study skills programme devised by Sylvan Learning. The programme is designed to show children the best methods and techniques for test taking, time management and cultivating good study habits.

“Mentors will be picked depending on their academic level and related skills. Children who are weak in some areas need to be paired with mentors who’re strong in those areas — another reason why matching is so important,” says Hala.

Under the guidance of Sylvan Learning, mentors will train children in skills such as

organisation and time management, which includes organising their papers, planning studies and setting goals. Children will be taught to make the most of the classroom experience with the best methods of listening, taking notes, following directions and managing and presenting information.

Mentors will teach their protégés how to effectively use notes as part of the studying process whilst improving their textbook and research skills and specific techniques for studying. For those who shun examinations, mentors will show them how to best tackle multiple choice and essay tests while giving them tips on conquering test anxiety.

In addition to these areas, the academic programme will offer children tutoring in specific subjects where they are in need of further academic tutoring, including maths, science, English, Arabic and social studies.

Hala points out that the project may not be an easy way out for the mentor students, but it’s definitely a rewarding proposition.

“It needs tremendous motivation to get so involved with the welfare of a total stranger. But at the end of the process, personal fulfilment is guaranteed. Plus, there’s always the incentive to get your community hours done!” woman this month | January 2012 |

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Wellbeing

Wake Me

Up!

Alison Coldridge The post-New Year festivities come-down can be difficult to resurface from. Feel energised, refreshed and awake without resorting to caffeine by following simple steps.

There probably isn’t a person on the planet who doesn’t find it hard to get back into the swing of things after the New Year. The festive season comes hand-in-hand with a lovely period of rest and time off work and school, making it difficult to get that ‘buzz’ back.

The easy option is to turn to caffeine to keep those eyes open and avoid embarrassingly nodding off in early morning meetings, but quick-fix bursts of energy can potentially lead to a heart attack, which is not something any one wants! Conquering drowsiness before it overwhelms your mind can be quite a

challenge, so it is definitely worth exploring the natural options. You will find that there are many ways to feel energised all day long.

If you consider the ways you can help yourself before you sleep, whilst you sleep and when you wake it’s easy to maintain a feeling of vibrancy, which is definitely better than feeling lethargic and drained all day long!

Try out some of these and see if you find yourself more energised. You will probably also find that you feel happier and able to work much better and faster — which is great news for your boss!

Before bed

There are a number of things you can try out before you go to bed, as it will encourage your body to sleep more soundly meaning far more energy when you wake.

Go to bed happy An argument, especially if it’s with someone you care for, will unsettle you emotionally and you’ll stew over it all night long instead of sleeping. If you settle your differences before you head to bed, you’ll undoubtedly experience a much deeper and restful night’s sleep, making it easier to get up come the morning.

Avoid chocolate, coffee and red wine According to scientific studies, all of these products are difficult to digest. The digestion process will keep you awake or at the very least will cause you to endure a light sleep. If possible, it is best to avoid these items after lunchtime to ensure they are completely digested by the time you sleep.

Go to the toilet Being woken up by a full bladder is something we have all experienced. Then you face the cold, dark and silent stumble to the bathroom whilst you wish you were still asleep. It’s such a little thing, but by relieving your bladder before you sleep you will — hopefully — be ok throughout the night.

Tidy up Anyone who abides by Feng Shui rules will believe that a messy room causes disruption to your life. Although there may be some truth to the principles the belief upholds, on this occasion there is probably no need to rearrange all your furniture for a calmer ambience. Simply tidying up before bed can help you rearrange your mind.

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Whilst you sleep

Identify the noises and irritations that wake you up during the night so that your sleep is less disturbed, providing you with the energy you need.

Circulate the air By leaving your window and door open just a few inches, the fresh air from outside will be circulated through your bedroom all night.

Stagnant air can cause headaches and an increased room temperature, causing you to wake out of discomfort.

Shut out noise Noises are the most obvious disturbances to sleep. A loud noise can wake you from even the deepest slumber in the middle of the night in such a way that can leave you stunned and breathless — not good for your heart! Put your phone on silent and pop in some ear plugs if you live near a noisy, busy road.

When you wake

Avoid caffeine as your energy will burn out within two to three hours and you will feel the need to take your next dose. Instead, try out these more holistic approaches, which won’t damage your body or leave you with a raging headache.

Drink water A glass of water will instantly kick-start your metabolism and awakens your digestion system, prompting you to eat something. The food you eat will then pump your body with the energy you require to get going.

Do some exercise A spot of exercise before your day begins will give your body a chance to wake up as oxygen will course through the body. Take a stroll, hit the gym for half an hour or best of all — if you can bear the cold [BOLD] dive into the pool and swim some lengths. The immediacy of the temperature change will instantly perk you up!

Wash your sleepiness away It is easy to roll out of bed, brush your teeth and head straight out, but having a quick shower will awaken all of your nerves, senses and get the blood flowing so you are naturally more awake. If you are brave, turn down the temperature control. The colder the water is the more awake you will be.

Snack on low-carb foods Certain types of food are great energy boosters.

Fruits such as grapefruit, oranges and apples are ideal. Steer clear of meats, breads and dairy products as they are all “heavy’ foods and will leave you feeling lethargic.

Stretch your mind

Get some fresh air

Laughing, socialising and working are all activities which will stimulate your mind and wake up your brain. Working will keep your mind busy, forcing it to keep whirring away and subsequently keeping you awake.

Just like you should keep a window open when driving, it’s a good practice in your home, office or wherever you need energy.

The circulation of the fresh air will rouse your senses and if the air is cold you will also feel far more revived. woman this month | December 2011 |

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20 Tips

Tips:

Beating those New Year Blues

Alison Coldridge We’re all guilty of getting a little glum once the vibrancy of the festive

season has died down. Discovering a new hobby can brighten up the start of the year and ensure that you are mixing in new social circles.

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Get Creative.

1

. Photography. Snapping away is the simplest way to appreciate the beauty of the place in which we live and there are many clubs and societies to join if you want to be inspired by others.

2

. Weaving. One of the island’s most traditional crafts is weaving, be it to make a basket or a garment. Learn the skill at Kurar House within the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre or at Capital Mall.

3.

Knitting. It may seem like something only your grandmother would do, but knitting is actually really useful, fun and cool! Knit your own chunky sweaters, scarves and even blankets to keep you cosy.

4

. Gardening. Take advantage of the cooler weather and get outside. Beautify your garden with flowers or grow vegetables, fruits and herbs for healthier living.

5.

Jewellery making. We all love wearing jewellery, so why not make exactly what you want to wear? The Gold Souq is full of beads and stones perfect for any creation.

6.

Baking. Last year it was all about cupcake and whoopie pies and who knows what sweet treat this year will highlight, but whatever it is, it will be fun to make and delicious to eat.

7

. Customising. If there is one thing Bahrain is full of, its fabric shops, and affordable ones at that. Play around with enhancing tired old outfits with embellishments for a new fun look.

Push Yourself.

11

Sporting. Whether you like to run, jump, play ball, cycle or golf, Bahrain is full of clubs offering every choice possible to keep you fit and having fun.

12

. Racing cars. The BIC is a wonderful facility that should be taken advantage of. Here you can drag race, speed along in go-karts and take an interest in the big-boy competitions.

13.

Water sports. As we live in a country entirely surrounded by water, it is safe to say there are numerous water activities to partake in.

Try jet skiing at the Marina Club or diving at Coral Beach Club.

Branch Out.

14

. Volunteer. Doing something charitable each week takes your mind off your own woes and help improve life for someone or something else. Why not walk a dog at the BSPCA or volunteer at a thrift shop.

15

. Learn a foreign language. When it comes to ex-pats [DASH] although we live in an Islamic country, how many of us can say we’ve tried to learn Arabic? For nationals [DASH] how many of you speak French? Head to Berlitz to boost your employability with another language.

16

. Pole dancing. The newest and most trendy form of exercise will have you swinging around upside down with your girlfriends for an hour whilst toning every part of your body.

17.

Blogging. If you haven’t got involved in this digital phenomenon then give it a go. Blogging is a great outlet for repressed emotions or to let others know fun things to do/visit.

18

8.

Acting. This is a great way to build confidence and unveil a talent

. Aromatherapy. Researching and practicing aromatherapy is another upcoming trend. The world loves natural methods of relaxation and this could be just the trick!

9.

Singing.

. Public speaking. 2012 is the year to be heard, but many of us lack the confidence. Join a toast-makers society and learn ways to speak up without the fear.

you didn’t know you had. The Manama Theatre Club frequently puts on productions and welcomes all ages.

If your inner diva is screaming to be unleashed, singing lessons or even joining a choir is the right way to go. Plus, it’s a good way to relieve tension.

10.

Dancing. There are so many different forms of dancing that

surely one must appeal. So get on your shoes and show us some moves.

19 20

. Teaching. If you have a skill you have perfected over the years, why not spread your knowledge and teach it. Find a group of people who would be interested and educate them.

woman this month | January 2012 |

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Parenting

New Year

New You! Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Just because you’re all grown up, with children of your own, this doesn’t mean you can’t still learn a thing or two…

New Year’s Resolutions for Parents

I

t’s New Year’s Eve. The lights are flashing, the music is playing, friends and family are together, it’s chilly outside and you are ready to embark on another chapter of parenting.

New Year's Eve has traditionally been a time for jotting down a list of all the things we want to accomplish or change in the next twelve months.

Many of us will have, at some time or another, vowed to do more exercise; eat fewer calories; spend more time with our families and even have more fun. Planning and evaluating our lives gives us a chance for a new start, but it also provides

time for reflection. So, what do you want to change in 2012 as a parent? It is always a good idea to take time to re-evaluate how we respond to our children. This way we can strive to ensure that we are really paying attention to their changing needs as they grow older.

So, start thinking about what to give up and what to make room for. In the spirit of excitement, change and action, this article aims to provide you with a top ten tips for change. It will also highlight some ways that you can encourage children to set goals for themselves.

1. I will always ensure that my children are empowered — if they can do it for themselves, I will let them. This will allow their self-esteem to grow whilst they navigate their own life.

2. I will encourage my children to take risks, big risks (as long as they are not physically or morally dangerous). I will be brave enough to do this and they will see that I am brave.

They will develop their courage as they continue their journey to adulthood, ready for the exciting and challenging world ahead.

3. I will ask more questions and listen to the answers. I will ask more and give advice less. The more my children can figure things out on their own, the better. I am there as a guide, not a lecturer.

4. I will see my children’s learning as a process. I will appreciate them for who they are now, as well as looking to nourish their potential for the future. My children are worthy of my love and attention and I will give them what they need and deserve, every step of the way.

5. I am not the CEO! Our family is a team and so I will include my children in as many decision-making processes, those that involve them directly or indirectly, as possible. This will encourage independent thinking and responsibility.

6. Serenity — I will accept the things I cannot change. Some things are beyond my control.

I will be there to help when mistakes are made and accidents occur. I have faith in my children's abilities to handle what life brings them, but nobody is perfect. If I do not show faith in my children, they will never learn to have faith in themselves or their world.

7. I will choose child-centred parenting, which involves making parenting decisions in the greatest interest of my child, not based on what my family, friends or neighbours will think. I will not seek approval or go with the majority; I know what good parenting is myself. I will be strong and a model to my children. I will show them that what the outside world thinks about me is so much less important as what I think.

8. I will only talk about my children's strengths.

And I will keep talking about them to anyone who will listen! I will praise my children again and again. In this way, if they ever overhear me talking about them, they will feel loved and respected as unique individuals.

9. I will make time to offer my children opportunities to practice life skills as well as concentrating on their reading and writing.

In time, they will draw more heavily on these life skills that I have allowed them to learn. woman this month | January 2012 |

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Parenting

10. I will always remember that growing up is hard work. It takes practice and patience and time. My children need support around them. When I am old and I reflect on who I was as a parent, they will say that I was strong, supportive and that I had great faith in them. I will not be remembered as a mother who nagged, moaned or mollycoddled.

So, now you have read ideas of what parenting resolutions can look like, why not have a go at writing some of your own? Next, we look at how you can assist your children in setting their own targets.

Helping Your Children To Set Goals

Even though New Year's resolutions are, curiously, an adult phenomenon, we aren’t often particularly good at sticking to them. How many of us have laid down manageable or ambitious plans only to see them fade out by the January 15? Well, our children see this and it likely makes them think that resolutions aren't really worth sticking to. The answer? Encourage your children to get involved and write some resolutions with you.

Resolutions are a good message as they encourage self-development and life-long learning. They introduce the idea of a fresh start, an effort to improve one's self in some way, that it's never too late to try. It's about 62

| January 2012 | woman this month

thinking positively and optimistically and these are all the things that children need too. So, enabling them to develop some realistic resolutions of their own can be good for everyone.

Tips to remember l If you as a parent make a resolution for yourself, tell your child about it and your reasons for embarking on the challenge.

Children learn by example and you are their most prominent role model. l When helping your child set their own goals, be sure to make them pick something achievable. They won’t be solving world peace tomorrow, so don’t let them set their hopes too high. l Spending more time together is always a good goal to make. It means that you will bond even further and your child will feel loved and cherished. l Some resolutions will fail and you are bound to hit bumps in the road.

Part of growing up is learning that not everything is achievable and not everything quite works how you intend it to. A real show of strength for your child would be for them to see you get back on the horse, to pick up where you left off even if you have let your resolutions slip. Whatever you do, don’t give up completely.

Adapt and change, accept that obstacles will arise, but do your best.

Example resolutions for children

1. Starting a new sport or talent. If they haven’t already tried something like football or hockey or even playing the trumpet, then why not give it a go? Agree on how many classes or

sessions they ought to be taking a week. Keep it to a number that they can stick to. Agree on a plan of action if they don’t like it [DASH] for example, don’t let them just give up completely.

Decide on a certain number of sessions they must complete before making up their mind and, if they don’t like it still, suggest they take up something else instead.

2. Doing a good deed every day. This is a great one because it is so easy, but it teaches children a lot! Your child can decide to complete one act of kindness everyday. This could be as simple as picking up a pencil that someone else accidentally dropped at school and handing it back to them. Get them to come home and tell you about their good deed for the day and ask them how it made them feel.

3. Making new friends. This will encourage children to develop their confidence and their ability to communicate with different people.

They should aim to make one new friend a week, or every two weeks. It could be a person at school that they haven’t spoken to before, or the child of a friend of yours, or someone at the playground. Keep a good eye on who they choose, but making friends with other children is rarely a bad thing.

4. Less time on the computer. For every hour spent playing video games or on the internet, your child could agree to do something more hands on or active — such as helping to cook a new dish for supper, reading a new book, talking to siblings or playing in the garden.

5. Striving for better grades. Telling children that they need to perform better in the classroom doesn’t normally work. They see this as a command and will become reluctant. If the idea is their own, on the other hand, then they are much more likely to want to follow through.

Ask them how it would make them feel to get better marks; set up their own gold star selfreward system at home; agree that you will do something special together if they get a certain number of good grades. Make learning a positive experience that they have a say in themselves.

Setting your child apart

Teaching children to set goals and follow them through to completion is all part of growing up.

Tips • Don't turn New Year's Resolutions into a chore!

What Do Children Learn From New Year's Resolutions?

T

his is really a “how long is a piece of string?” style of question. Children will learn what you teach them, but it might not be what you wanted to teach them, or thought you had taught them.

The way that children view goals varies from child to child and from goal to goal. Some of it depends on how a child sees time and how he/she views herself in the world. Time is not experienced in the same way by everyone. Consider that one year is 20 per cent of a five year old’s life! If you have spent any time with a five year old, a week is a very long time, so a one year plan is probably too big a commitment.

The things that children will learn from goal-setting also vary. One child might learn to be proficient in making and working towards a resolution, another might get a lesson in delayed gratification. A different child might learn about how best to access new information or pick up a new understanding of how the world works.

Children are endlessly learning new things, helping them to cultivate more of a sense of how adults see the world, but this doesn’t mean that we should forget that their world view is very different. They are still developing skills and control over their world that we

take for granted. They are still learning how to build and attain a goal. What would seem a small goal to an adult can seem huge to a child as he/she is still developing mastery over the process. Learning the process with a very small goal is probably the most appropriate thing to do.

Children with larger-than-life imaginations, for example, will need to begin to see the world more realistically. This can be done through realistic goalsetting. However, some imagination is no bad thing, so it is important not to quash the “dreamer” mentality altogether. Small steps and small goals will lead to bigger feelings of triumph.

If your child takes on a goal that they need your help with, be sure that you can follow through with your fraction of the agreement. If you have agreed to drive the child to Karate lessons regularly, for example, make sure you take this agreement seriously.

Adults and children will experience days when it seems that things are not going to plan. They will need encouragement and rewards. Talk to your child about setbacks and challenges and help him/her to envisage what obstacles might be encountered along the way. When the obstacles do crop up, you can make light of them, empathically, as they are anticipated and part of the process. Remind them of how fabulous it will be when the goals are achieved!

• As soon as your child has made his/her resolutions, make sure he/she takes immediate action. This is an important part of the process as it creates momentum.

• Praise and encourage him/her as they work through the process.

Be supportive when he/she gets discouraged, or hits an obstacle. Help him/her to see that it is not the end of the world, and that obstacles are part of the process.

• When your child reaches an obstacle, this is the time to remind them why they wanted to succeed with this resolution, and to repeat the visualisation of success, just as they did when the list was first made.

• Succeeding with goals and resolutions involves more than just following a set of instructions. It also involves having the right mindset, overcoming negativity, problem solving, and being persistent.

For feedback, comments or questions contact Dr Jinan Darwish via email at: editor@womanthismonth.com woman this month | January 2012 |

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Showcase GULF PHARMACY

Velvet Touch

When it comes to healthy, glowing skin, every woman is on a never-ending hunt for the best products available.

F

lexitol Naturals Skin Nourishing Oil has become a favourite with clients who look for a non-invasive, natural way to get ultra smooth skin.

The non-greasy atomiser spray nourishes the skin with herbal extracts and essential oils. Dermatologically tested, the natural nourishment has shown to minimise the appearance of stretch marks, scars, dehydrated skin, uneven skin tone, ageing skin and is perfect for an all around daily skincare routine.

The herbal extracts and essential oils intensively nourishes your skin by allowing it to produce new and healthy skin cells, specially formulated to help repair blemished skin.

You are ensured a soft and smooth feel after the first application.

Containing only natural, functional ingredients like Hyperloum Oil — time honoured essential oil with valuable soothing properties, Rose Hip Oil — which helps skin to diminish the appearance of sores and wrinkles and balances skin tone, Calendula — a favourite to help soothe and moisture dry skin, whilst promoting new cell growth, Everlasting Oil — the astringent properties of this essential oil promotes new cell growth and also has good anti-oxidant qualities and Arnlea Oil — which has invaluable, soothing properties.

The range contains no vitamin A, so is safe for use during pregnancy, no petroleum or preservatives and is not tested on animals. The daily use of it enhances the skins radiance to an unrecognisable degree, so leave your skin woes behind and head down to Gulf Pharmacy to check out the whole Flexitol skin range.

Call 17 877-107 or www.gctbahrain.com.

BANSRI JEWELLERY

She’s a Diamond!

Bansri Jewellery have an exciting new collection of stunning, diamond encrusted watches. The perfect gift for a special woman in your life!

B

ansri Jewellery in Gold City has long been the proprietor of special, quality jewellery. They source their designs from around the world and are always on the look out for the latest brands to stock and exciting new collections.

This holiday season is no different. They have recently acquired an exquisite new collection. The Diafuego brand prides itself on the creation of modern, functional diamond-wear and their watch collections aim to provide just this! With designs that range between the ultra-fashionable to much more classical or even sporty shapes and styles, you are sure to find something that tickles your fancy.

Each watch is studded with high quality Vs diamonds and each and every watch comes with an international warranty for one year, so you can be sure that your purchase will last and last.

Bansri Jewellery is in the business of taking care of its customers’ needs and desires.

This is why, as often as they can, they arrange discounts and offers to aid purchasing power. Currently, in the lead up to the festive season, they are giving you 40 per cent off their new watch collection. This means that these gorgeous diamond watches are available from as little as 75BD, as well as going up to 400BD, for the really special items.

There are also offers ranging from 40 to 60 per cent off on other lines within the store.

Call 17 229-457.

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THE HOME STORE

The Perfect Winter Companions The winter is here, the temperature has dropped and it’s time to kit out your home with some seasonally appropriate furnishings.

T

he Home Store, one of the fastest growing home furnishings companies in the region, has everything you could possibly need to ensure that your living room, bedrooms, kitchen and bathrooms are all looking chic, stylish and functional during the colder winter months.

Since it sprung to life in 2006, The Home Store has been dedicated to ensuring that they design, produce and stock nothing but the most innovative and forward-thinking home furnishing designs. They pay close attention to the trends, colours, textures and fabrics of the current seasons and use this as inspiration for their own creations.

This winter you’ll be keen to make sure your home reflects the tones of the season; so why not have a look at some of their throws, cushions and pillow cases, which come in a variety of browns, blues and taupes — perfect for the darker vibe of the chillier part of the year.

We all know that wood is great as insulation, whilst at the same time being stylish and modern. The Home Store stocks a great range of wood-finish furniture — a great addition to an otherwise bare kitchen or dining room.

Whatever your winter needs, you can be sure that The Home Store’s staff, at their location in The Bahrain Mall, will be ready and able to assist you.

Call 17 556-001.

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25 to

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Off New Arrivals

Daily Timings 10am to 10pm woman this month | January 2012 |

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Showcase AMBASSADOR STORES

The Sound of Music

For those of you who have taken up a musical instrument as a part of their resolutions for 2012, we have an interesting option for you. Get those fingers running over a cool Clavinova — a grand keyboard like no other!

O

n the Graded Hammer 3 keyboard with superior performance properties, synthetic ivory keytops provide a pleasant touch even during long performances. The CLP-440 model offers the quality of higher-class models. In addition to the RGE sound engine, a piano sound source reflecting Yamaha’s precise attention to detail, it even achieves the resonance of strings, subtle changes of sound when your fingers rise from the keys and mellow reverberations the instant the damper pedal is pressed. Grand piano-like, rich, expressive sound will vividly resonate in perfect harmony with your performance. There are also multiple colour variations you can choose to suit your taste and the décor of your room.

Real grand expression It is not only the full realisation of the sound, the touch and the pedals, but the application of technologies nurtured by crafting acoustic pianos to perfectly integrate these three elements into a single piano, that makes this instrument extraordinary.

Smooth release It features a new “smooth release” function, which can express sound with great clarity, and clearly enunciate staccato notes with the sound of lingering resonance heard when gently lifting your fingers from the keys.

It succeeds in capturing the essence of a piano performance to create grand piano-like, richly expressive sounds.

No more dropping notes When you play fast phrases or superimpose chords while pressing the damper pedal, you want to be able to perform without notes dropping out. The Clavinova provides 256-note polyphony so you can enjoy complex works such as those by Liszt or Ravel, which feature numerous pedal presses, with no limitations. As your playing improves over the years, your Clavinova will continue to let you make the most of your abilities.

Three accurate sensors Depending on the weight of the hammer, the force of your touch and the natural key return when you release it, the Clavinova faithfully reproduces the keyboard touch of an acoustic piano from the heavy feel in the lower range to the light feel in the higher range. Also important is Yamaha’s unique three-sensor system, which accurately senses and interprets the behaviour of the keyboard, just like a grand piano.

Key stabilisers All 88 keys are equipped with keyboard stabilisers. This not only lets you play with a natural touch, it greatly improves the stability and durability of the keys.

Setting the volume control The Intelligent Acoustic Control (IAC) function automatically adjusts the sound, so you enjoy proper sound balance even at low volumes.Additionally, the volume dial automatically makes fine adjustments to the overall sound of the speaker system at low volume. This ability to adjust volume without losing the rich and balanced sound is an exclusive Yamaha benefit, ensuring you always play with the utmost sound quality.

Environment-friendly The new models reduce power consumption as much as 10 per cent from previous models, by using high-efficiency amplifiers. Not only do these amplifiers save energy, they also improve sound quality. The more you play, the more you will appreciate this energy-saving performance.

Call 17 225-513 or visit www.services.music. yamaha.com.

Image of CVP-509 model.

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BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Head Injury Dilemmas Children are prone to bumping their heads every now and then. Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH) tells us when we should and shouldn’t panic!

H

ead injuries affecting children are common reasons for medical consultation and evaluation, both in the emergency room and in the paediatric clinics; they are also the most common causes of disability and death in children.

Studies show an estimate of more than 10,000 children become disabled from a brain or head injury each year. More than half of the presentations to the emergency rooms of this sort are accounted for by young girls and boys of under five years — more so among the boys.

“It is known that trauma is the leading cause of death among infants and children; where the common etiologies can range from automobile accidents, bicycle injuries, falls from heights of four feet and above to non-accidental trauma like child abuse. In some parts of the world, even injuries from skating and missile shots are also listed as common causes!” says paediatrician Dr. Jofrelyn Bistoyong.

Dr. Jofrelyn continues to explain that other than the obvious cases, where open and penetrating wounds on the head are visible, signs to watch out for include symptoms like headache, three or less episodes of vomiting, brief fainting or loss of consciousness.

“For those with moderate head injuries, they become progressively lethargic, with loss of consciousness for more than five minutes, increasing severity of headache, more than three times vomiting, sometimes with posttraumatic amnesia,” she continues. These cases also tend to present with signs of multiple trauma, serious facial injury, leaking fluid from the brain in ears and nose.

Infants and children with a severe head injury, however, present with severe lethargy or drowsiness, evidence of penetrating skull injury, depressed skull fractures and neurological deficits.

These and more childhood injuries are very thoroughly managed at the BSH, where

children who are alert and awake may be observed for about four hours in the ER and if there is no deterioration in status, do not need a radiographic examination nor hospitalisation.

“A brain CT scan is the most common examination administered in head trauma cases. In the event of deterioration of level of consciousness; prolonged confusion; excessive vomiting; questionable mechanism of injury or unwitnessed trauma; presence of neurological signs, seizures or skull fracture, an admission to the hospital is warranted. Our multispecialty team of doctors, composed of the paediatrician, radiologist, neurologist and neurosurgeon, is usually involved in the overall treatment of head injuries in kids.”

Most children with head injuries make a full recovery, BSH hand over a special leaflet to parents highlighting specifically what to look for after they get home what warrants a return to the ER or phoning the doctor.

Call 17 812-000. woman this month | January 2012 |

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Travel

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow Elma Bartholomew

We’ve all got our bucket list of scribbled down dream destinations. You might think you have all the time in the world to cross them off, but here are three sites that you absolutely must visit before it is too late!

Galapagos Islands The Low-down: The Galápagos — 14 major and many smaller islands spanning the Equator, 620 miles off the coast of Ecuador — remains the world’s most biologically intact tropical archipelago. Giant tortoises lumber across the lava rocks, while iguanas defy desert stereotypes and plunge into the sea.

X-factor: But pollution, over-fishing and development are harming efforts to conserve the habitat and wildlife. A tourism boom is also taking its toll. The islands are mostly under the control of Galapagos National Park, which restricts access to designated areas. Still, people over the years have unwittingly or deliberately introduced invasive life-forms that can undermine the natural order. Scientists warn that the damage could be irreversible. And yet the islands beckon.

Best for: Evolution disciples and the merely curious who can experience the conspicuously adapted wildlife, as did Charles Darwin in 1835, kindling his discovery of the process of evolution by natural selection. Tread lightly and only if you respect the seriousness of the issue. These islands do not need tourists who will treat this as a two-day stopover as part of a mega-cruise.

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| January 2012 | woman this month

Venice

The Low-down: The enchanting city celebrates its Middle Age and Renaissance glory through its art, architecture and enduring spirit. A jewel of a city audaciously built on 118 tiny islands and a network of waterways, Venice is an imperilled treasure that stubbornly endures. Due to the plodding geological shifts of the continents, the city is sinking at a rate of two and a half inches per decade. A watery demise for Venice by the end of the century may be inevitable.

X-factor: It’s hard to imagine impending doom when you first encounter this enchanting Italian city. With its maze of narrow streets, hundreds of bridges and dozens of canals linking its magnificent architecture and art, even a wrong turn can be thrilling. The deluxe way to see Venice is to cruise the canals in a pricey, cushioned gondola poled by a boatman.

Gazing from water level, the city reveals vistas, waterfront facades, fenestration and bridge decorations. The sleek gondolas can detour off the Grand Canal into smaller, less-travelled waterways.

Best for: Honeymooners. The Grand Canal, the city’s main thoroughfare, is not to be missed. In 1495, the ambassador to French king Charles VIII called it “the most beautiful street in the world”. And, fortunately, not much has changed since then.

Amazon Rainforest

The Low-down: With an ecosystem under siege, every moment in this wild wonderland is one to savour.

The Amazon rainforest covers more than two million square miles of the earth’s surface, spanning eight South American countries.

Although the region has no seasons, the Amazon River rises and falls by as much as 30 feet during the year, and the variety of living things one can see changes with it. Every journey reveals new wonders.

X-factor: More than a third of the world’s species, mostly plants and insects, make their home in the rain forest. But with the help of an experienced guide, you can also glimpse a rainbow of exotic creatures that includes toucans, red deer and pink dolphins. The astonishment and beauty of the Amazon lie in the intricacy of this fabulously complex ecosystem.

Best for: Adventurers. Most travellers visit the western areas of the rain forest that remain largely untouched, such as the Loreto region of Peru, so they may not notice that the ecosystem is under siege.

Already, 20 per cent of the forest has been cut down for timber or burned to make way for farms, with thousands more acres disappearing each day. woman this month | January 2012 |

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Food

New

Year, New Food

James Claire We’ve all made that list of the things we want to do before we die. But what about a list of the foods we couldn’t go without trying?

M

ost people write about the fact that in a New Year you should work toward a “new” you. Well this year is a little different. And I’ll tell you why! It’s 2012.

According to the Mayan calendar this year 20.12.2012 will be the date of a cataclysmic event.

Now I’m not saying that I absolutely believe in this notion, but I did see the movie and have considered that perhaps the Mayans should be given the benefit of the doubt, considering how far advanced they were for their time and how long ago their prediction was made.

I will completely change my mind of course on December 21 next year and so the January issue of WTM after that will probably be full of fitness and wellbeing recipes.

However, this year, in light of the Mayan’s prediction, I have decided to do a “bucket list” for foodies.

I for one have a long list of foods I want to eat between now and the end of time — I have just 11 months perhaps to track them all down. But for yourselves I thought I’d keep things a little simpler and supply you with a few things you simply “must cook” and enjoy in 2012. A few things you have to try before time runs out.

I’m starting with dishes you most likely buy in, which are simpler than you could imagine and should be tried in-house by all home-chefs.

Surprise yourself and surprise those around you by creating take away style food at home, whilst enjoying a little extra time with the family and friends, before it’s too late!

Nothing could be more delicious than an appetiser of Thai Crab cakes, Indian Chicken Tikka Masala, Chinese Beef and Broccoli and good old fashioned New York style cheesecake in a year that could truly see us all getting closer than ever before.

Chinese Beef with Broccoli

200g Fresh broccoli Salt Black pepper, freshly ground 600g fillet steaks olive oil 1 onion, peeled and diced finely 2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped Small piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped 60ml soy sauce A few splashes of sesame oil Slice the fillet steaks into thin, finger-sized strips and season with salt and pepper. l Heat a large frying pan until very hot. For the more adventurous chef use a wok! l Pour in little olive oil and add the onions, garlic and ginger. Fry until the onions have softened a little. Drop in the seasoned pieces of beef and stir-fry for a couple of minutes. l Add the broccoli spears and fry for a further two minutes, with the lid on or covered. Remove the lid, stir all the contents and pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. l Toss in the pan to coat everything and then tip over steamed rice to serve. l

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New York Style Cheesecake Base 200g all-purpose flour 80g caster sugar 105g unsalted butter Pinch malden sea salt

Cheesecake 670g cream cheese 160g caster sugar 4g all-purpose flour 275g sour cream 5 eggs

pinch salt 1 tsp vanilla Zest, 1 oranges Sour Cream Glaze 350g sour cream 100g caster sugar

For the base — place the flour, sugar, salt and softened butter into a bowl and crumb the butter into the dry ingredients until the mix starts to clump together. Sprinkle the mixture evenly into the base of a lightly greased cake tin and press it down lightly. Bake the base for 15 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius. Remove and cool. l For the cheesecake — in the bowl of an electric mixer, using a metal paddle/blade, place the softened cream cheese with the flour, sugar, orange zest, salt and vanilla and blend together until the mixture is just combined (it is important not to over mix). Add the eggs one at a time and then add the sour cream. When the mixture is smooth, pour it onto the baked base. l Place the tin containing the cheesecake onto a deep tray and half fill the tray with water. Place into a cool oven of 150 degrees and bake the l

cheesecake for one hour or until the mixture is firm but still jelly-like near the centre. l While the cheesecake bakes, mix the sour cream and the sugar together whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved. l Remove and allow the cheesecake to drop slightly (five minutes), but then immediately pour the sour cream directly onto the top .Ensure it covers the top and spreads to the edge.Allow the cheesecake to cool in the refrigerator for 12 hours before slicing and serving.

Thai Crab Cakes

500g fresh crab meat, 500g potatoes, peeled and cut into similarly sized pieces. Pinch salt Pinch ground black pepper olive oil zest, 2 lemons finely grated 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 3 spring onions, finely chopped Be sure to pick the crab meat from the shells of freshly cooked crabs.

Take your time to ensure there is no shell in the meat. Your work here will be rewarded later. l Add the potatoes to a large pan of salted, boiling water and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain. l In a large bowl add the potatoes and the crab meat, season with salt and pepper to taste and mash all with a potato masher. l Finely grate the zest of a lemon into the potato mix, add the chopped parsley and chopped spring onions. Scrape this into the pan of crab mixture and mash again till well combined. Divide into 12 portions then shape into a patty. Refrigerate overnight, to firm. l To cook, heat the olive oil in a frying pan on a high heat. Add half of the patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, turn halfway, or until golden, crisp and cooked through, then repeat with the second batch.

Serve on a platter with salad leaves.

Indian Chicken Tikka Masala fresh red chilli, deseeded 1 clove of garlic, peeled 15g fresh ginger 1 tbsp vegetable oil Pinch of paprika ½ tbsp garam masala 1 tsp of tomato puree 8g fresh coriander 400g chicken breast, chunks 1 small onion, peeled, diced red capsicum, deseeded, sliced green capsicum, deseeded, sliced pinch of ground cinnamon pinch of ground coriander 1 x 400g tin tomatoes 100ml plain yoghurt

l

Twenty-four hours before cooking the dish, place the cleaned and seeded chilli, garlic, ginger and vegetable oil into the bowl of a food processor and pulse them together. Add the paprika, garam masala, tomato puree and coriander. Process again. l Place the cubed chicken pieces in a ceramic dish and coat them with this marinade, cover and leave in the fridge overnight. l To make the curry, take a frying pan with a little oil and fry the onion and peppers over medium heat for 10 minutes. Add the tomatoes and the yoghurt and stir together. l Add the marinated chicken pieces and simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked. l Just before serving, stir through the double cream and chopped coriander leaves and serve over steamed rice. l

woman this month | January 2012 |

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Horoscopes

Your

Year in 2012 Raphael We ask our amazing astrologer Raphael to give us an extended projection for the year of 2012.

Capricorn December 22 - January 20

A job offer in March will see you moving home and in some cases perhaps even to a new country, but it will be a positive change and something that is going to benefit you on so many levels as 2012 unfolds. Those of you not so career focused could face challenges on the family front when a young person makes a request of you that will be initially difficult to comprehend. Once the dust has settled and you absorb everything the world will not seem so confusing, but it will still take you some time to warm to the change. On the relationship front, a person you have looked fondly upon for some time now is suddenly going to send out all the signals that they may be interested further. It certainly seems that by June you both could be part of a committed relationship. Luck also finds you in green and with anything associated with the number 21.

Aquarius January 21 - February 19

2012 is going to be a big year of change for you and things will start quite soon in the middle of January as you look to buy a new car or similarly expensive item. All the signs suggest that there is an extra special purchase waiting out there for the more “eagle-eyed” shoppers amongst you — so long as you are willing to commit an eager salesman to his or her first offer. Trouble will come looking for you in the form of a relative in search of money. Trust your better judgement and refuse them to save a falling-out later. Mid-September may see a change of accommodation with the likelihood being greater if you are currently renting. Look for a window with bright red curtains and the numbers five and two in relation to this event. Beware a man selling his wares in October and ignore a party invitation on November 23 that could lead you into problems.

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Pisces February 20 - March 20

Soul searching is the order of your year as you begin it by analysing your relationship and speculate as to whether a future exists there at all. For some, the story is optimistic — especially if you have been negotiating a commitment from your partner with a final target of marriage in mind. On a different note, a male dressed in blue will make his way into your life around May and bring a smile to your face, whilst the number 15 could lead to rich rewards if you are wise in your negotiations.

On the family front you could find yourself having to talk through a dispute with siblings in July and this may lead to you taking on more than you bargained for. The number 30 will relate to a date in the year that will be significant so watch for opportunities around the end of each month, whilst the colour yellow will have significance around work, perhaps for uniform or a logo.

Aries March 21 – April 20

2012 is set to be a key year for your sign, with plenty of new opportunities on the horizon to drive you towards even bigger challenges. You may not have realised it at the time, but the last 12 months have been all about putting the groundwork into place and this is going to make progress for you a lot simpler. Career, finances and even your love life are all set to benefit, with February and April proving key months in the first quarter of the year and a business trip in July being pivotal in securing the right deal for you. The colour red will help to energise and motivate you and the number nine will be associated with episodes of good fortune over the 12 months ahead. If there is one note of caution, just be sure you keep an eye on a young one in the family who may be a cause for concern around September.

Taurus April 21 – May 21

Virgo August 24 – September 23

Gemini May 22 – June 21

Libra September 24 – October 23

Cancer June 22 – July 23

Scorpio October 24 – November 22

To say you tried hard to achieve your goals in 2011 would be an understatement and the truth is that, while you may have surpassed many of the milestones you set, there were a couple of more personal goals that you didn’t quite get to satisfy and these will prove the main focus for you in 2012. The potential for even greater success is resting in your hands, but you need to keep believing this, no matter how difficult things might become. Financially, things will be a lot more stable and you will enjoy even greater rewards from business and certain side projects that you have invested in. Emotionally, there could also be some crisis moments in March, but these should be easily resolved if you take a sensible approach to the situation. Finally, the number seven may bode well in anything to do with travel, so book your seat or hotel room with this in mind!

Gemini, yours is a pioneering sign and certainly one that needs plenty going on to keep it stimulated. Fortunately for you, 2012 is going to be all about just that and you will be driven towards great achievements, so long as you are able to keep the distractions at bay. Whilst you love the idea of new projects and fresh initiatives, if you have one failing it can be that you do not retain the appetite to carry projects through to their natural conclusion.

January will kick off with big plans, but if you feel your enthusiasm waning

by April be sure to pick up the situation otherwise you may lose out further down the line. Romance could blossom for you around June and a partnership could develop that spills over into other aspects of your life with surprising but pleasing results. The colour blue bodes well if buying a car and the number 12 brings luck in September.

2012 is going to be a two-sided affair for your sign, with the main body of your successes coming from academic or work related pursuits. Your career could really take a turn for the better over the first few months of the year, even if it might not seem like that initially. Equally, if you plan to start your own business or branch out, then February to May will be a key period. Make use of these months as best as you can because you will have little time for planning after then. On the relationship front, things will be less clear and there is every chance that a long-standing partnership could hit an insurmountable barrier and lead you to follow different paths. Painful as this may seem, you will realise it is for the better. Red is your colour for the year and four is the number most likely to bring rich rewards, especially in October.

Leo July 24 – August 23

You are going to find yourself the centre of attention this year in more ways than one and even though you love the attention, you may find that by the third quarter of 2012, even you might start believing you have bitten off a lot more than you can chew! If there is a lesson to be learned in advance then tone it down rather than ramp it up in certain situations!

On the health front, you may find yourself undergoing a procedure around the middle of July and if this proves to be the case then just make sure you take the necessary rest required afterwards or there could be some major repercussions later. On a more positive note, a loved one will be providing you with good news around the end of March and a past investment in business could mature with excellent returns sometime around the end of April. Orange 11 holds a travel opportunity in November with love in the air.

For many of you 2011 could have been perceived as a difficult year.

However, the next 12 months will be, in the main, rewarding and satisfying, if just a little fraught when it comes to your home life. The year could kick off with family members coming to stay and this is likely to put an enormous strain on your living environment until everyone gets used to the new situation. Try to be patient, but at the same time, ensure everyone is aware of the house rules. On the travel front, you’ll have a great trip in February and there are more planned on the horizon as the year develops. Romantically, you may also come into contact with someone, around April, who could really steal your heart and change your plans for the time to come. You are usually quite a careful sign but for some time at least, you will be throwing caution to the wind in the name of love!

Your sign will find itself in a state of flux for the early part of 2012 and part of this is because of difficult issues brought over from December that have yet to be resolved. It is never good to hold back on making decisions, whether they are challenging or not, so if you have something sitting at the back of your head that you need resolved then deal with it.

If you allow this problem to eat its way into the next year then you may never shake free of the situation. On a more positive note, your career could become a lot more focused after a job offer provides you with the financial and creative incentives you have been looking for to finally tackle a challenge that interests you. Good things come with the number eight and you could find romance after a trip away in June introduces you to a talented musician.

A romantic face from the past is going to open up your 2012 with a bang and some of you could find yourselves reliving past dramas and quickly realising why you separated from the person concerned as quickly as you did! Even if the suggestion that you can change matters enters your head, dismiss it immediately or it will all end in tears. On the work front, a job offer overseas will land in your lap sometime in early June and you should think long and hard before rejecting the opportunity. Although you may be a little overawed with what is presented before you, believing in your own capabilities could be the key to the potentially huge success you might enjoy if all unfolds as it could do. The number one bodes well for your sign this year as does the colour purple, but you should think twice before making any investments in August as it could cost you!

Sagittarius November 23 – December 21

You could be making a rod for your own back this year unless you quickly learn to change your attitude and develop a more humble approach to those closest to you. The attitude of entitlement some of you appear to have adopted is not going to endear you to anyone and could hurt your progress in the long term. On a more positive note, the chance to expand your horizons in the job market is going to make 2012 a great time to change careers or start a new business venture. Again, either option is only likely to succeed if you appreciate the investment of those around you. Emotionally, you could hit a wall in February when a romance you thought was developing nicely suddenly nosedives without any obvious reason, but if you invest some time in seeking out a solution then you may still be able to save the situation. woman this month | January 2012 |

73

Social Butterfly

CHERVOLET SONIC LAUNCH

Sarah & Narmeen

Mohan, Peter & Suresh

The all-new Chevrolet Sonic was launched in Bahrain last month. The latest offering by General Motors (GM) is being offered as a five-door hatchback and a sedan. The launch at GM dealers National Motor Company (NMC), in Sitra, was attended by company officials and media representatives Shahraban, Madiha, David, Eman & Amal

Adnan & Abdulla

The all-new Chervolet Sonic

Simon Austin, Dr Adel Hubail, Omran & Zakariya

Always at your disposal

Offers available: 1. Circuit training session: kickboxing, mixed exercise for punching techniques, move, cardio, stamina and strength exercise‌.

2. Personal training: A) Fitness programs: burning fats, metabolic acceleration, strengthening muscles B) Recreation program: a combination of different exercise to raise the basic physiological functions of your body.

C) Kick-boxing training: punching technique, movement, stamina, strength...

Personal training programs intended for age groups from 7 to 75 years based strictly on individual health assessment.

Facilities available: Cardiovascular equipment, isotonic equipment, exercise equipments like olympic bench, weights and dumbbells, adjustable benches and racks. Plus jacuzzi, steam room and swimming pool.

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| January 2012 | woman this month

For further information visit us at Juffair Fitness Center, next to Bahrain Medical Society, Juffair.

Or call us: Mobile: 33002592, Tel: 77072220, E-mail: jfcenter@hotmail.com

The New You KARATE ACADEMY

With the holiday cheer, parties and food behind us, its time to get back in shape.

I

f you want to stick to your New Year’s resolution this time around, then start now — no excuses, 2012 is your year!

With a motto that fitness needs to be a part of your everyday life and that a permanent result takes time and a lot of effort on your part, the Bahrain Karate-Do Academy (BKA) helps us make our goals more achievable.

“The secret to a successful New Year’s Resolution is to first choose an attainable goal for yourself. Choosing to make the same fitness resolution year after year that you may have been unsuccessful at in the past only sets you up for frustration and failure,” says owner Debbie Al Asfoor.

The BKA team always encourage students to set goals to focus on there martial arts training — like making your first resolution to reach your next belt ranking!

The people who succeed in attaining their goals start slow and gradually, making the necessary adjustments that it takes to succeed with their fitness goals over time.

So if your resolution involves a lifestyle makeover, then why not try to get fit and healthy with a spot of Shotokan Karate? For strength training, yoga, karate and athletic stretching, then the BKA is the place for you. Call to book a free trial of any of their classes offered.

Call 3 6657-059.

Gulf Air Woman's Day

National carrier Gulf Air celebrated Bahraini Women’s Day at its Muharraq headquarters. On the occasion, Capt. Al Musallam congratulated Ms. Vanessa Umba, who has been promoted to the position of Captain - the first female pilot at Gulf Air to reach the position and two other female executives, Sahar Ataei, the first female Acting Chief Financial Officer and Eman Mandeel, the first female licensed engineer for their dedication and achievements

Mr. Al Musallam (centre) is seen cutting the cake with the Chief Officers of the airline - Chief Operations Officer, Captain Nasser Al Salmi and Acting Chief Financial Officer, Sahar Kamran Ataei (first and second from left), along with Chief Commercial Officer, Karim Makhlouf and Chief Services Officer, Marcus Bernhardt (first and second from right) with the staff members in the background

Gulf Air First Woman Engineer Eman Hameed Mandeel, Deputy CEO and Chief Administration Officer Maher Al Musallam, Acting Chief Financial Officer Sahar Kamran Ataei, First Female Captain Vanessa Umba and Chief Operations Officer, Captain Nasser Al Salmi

woman this month | January 2012 |

75

Showcase

1st Prize

YAQUBY STORES

Are You Up for a Challenge?

Most of us think we’re great photographers. Victorinox gives you the chance to prove you are who you claim to be.

I

t is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of packing for an adventure-filled trip. Having stood the test of time as the camper’s trusty travel companion, the Victorinox pen knife is a legend among tools. This marvellous little gadget has stayed faithful to generations of explorers, artists, builders and homemakers alike. It is the perfect gift for those expecting nothing less than precision. In several cases, it has proven to be a true lifesaver.

Frame it The scenarios that bring forth this wondrous implement are many; ranging from your last trekking holiday or mountain climbing trip to your artistic exploits at home. The brand that carved its name in the market with its spectacular Swiss army knives now gives you more reason to smile. Prove its indispensability through a one-of-a-kind contest. Capture your favourite Victorinox moment on camera, showing how your amigo, the Victorinox pen knife, has impacted your life.

To enter, simply collect an application form from The Camera Shop or go online and submit the filled-in form with the winning image on a CD. The image file has to be a minimum of 4MB as it will need to be enlarged by the company. Upon submission, applicants don’t go home empty handed. You get to walk away with a free Victorinox t-shirt.

Once all entries are in a professional photographer, with a keen eye for the creative, will choose the best three photographs from the whole lot.

Family albums with bare slots and missing portraits above the mantle piece indicate the people of Bahrain are up for the challenge. Are you one of them? If you make it to the top of the list, you will win the RollsRoyce of all cameras — a Canon 7D. The runner-up will receive a BD250 cash prize, whilst the next-in-line can claim a reward of BD150.

What’s holding you back? Click away!

Call 17 171-700 or visit www.victorinoxphotochallenge.com.

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| January 2012 | woman this month

2nd Prize

3rd Prize

EUROMOTORS

Iconic Fusion

Two of the most established Italian household names have, for years, strived to provide clients with the utmost in luxury and style.

I

n a collaboration between the two giants — Maserati and Fendi — the Maserati GranCabrio Fendi was recently born and has now become a luxury you can’t afford to live without!

Launched in September 2011, this masterpiece of technology and craftsmanship features a three-layered body colour in a special dark grey, with an iridescent golden finish on the surface. The special edition car was built at Maserati’s headquarters in Modena and its aesthetic exterior was designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi. The interiors ooze luxury with an instantly noticeable double “F” logo found on the double-stitched quilted seats.

The wood trim Pergamena Fendi runs across the width of the dashboard, on the doors and on the top of the gear lever, all in the iconic Fendi yellow, like the brake callipers and the embroidered yellow trident on the headrests.

A set of 20 inch rims, with the fashion house’s logo found at its centre, finishes off the car’s exterior look.

Cuoio Romano, Fendi’s precious leather of its Selleria line, has been used for such details as the instrument cluster cover, for the gear lever and for the profile of the floor mats. The material is also featured in the brand’s limited edition travel set of luggage and accessories.

The Maserati GranCabrio Fendi represents a perfect marriage between the art of Fatto a Mano (handmade) with perfect technology and research. Its 4.7 litre V8 engine, coupled with automatic transmission, emits a unique roar — music to the ears of car connoisseurs. Silvia Venturini Fendi’s specially crafted logo seals this collaboration. A silver oval plaque with the engraving of the Maserati Trident, Fendi logo and the 5 digit series number (five being an iconic number for Fendi) is located on the dashboard, in front of the passenger seat, and on both sides of the black cloth folding roof.

Call 17 750-750. woman this month | January 2012 |

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Pink pages

S E G A P K IN

P

Bahrain Taxi/Limo Services Bahrain Limo 17 266-999 London Taxi 17 461-746 Saudi Bahrain transport 17 321-218 Speedy motors service 17 682-999 Hospitals and Clinics Al-Kindi Specialised Hospital 17 240-444 Al Marafi Clinic 17 585-373 American Mission Hospital 17 253-447 Bahrain Defence Force 17 766-666 Bahrain Specialist Hospital 17 812-000 Dr Enas Surgical Clinic 17 812-195 Dr Tariq Hospital 17 822-822 East Riffa Maternity Hospital 17 771-258 Geriatric Unit 17 320-969 German Skincare Clinic 17 722-696 Haffadh Dental Hospital 17 311-180 Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital 17 828-282 International Hospital 17 598-222 Jidhafs Maternity Hospital 17 550-022 Muharraq Maternity Hospital 17 322-911 Noor Specialist Hospital 17 260-026 Psychiatric Hospital 17 279-300 Salmaniya Medical Complex 17 288-888 Sitra Maternity Hospital 17 730-758 Therapy Centre 17 592-401 Western Region Maternity 17 631-627 Beauty Centers and Spas Al Arrayed centre 17 272-323 Ann Beauty Center Spa 17 623-704 Bahrain Massage Centre 17 264-064 Bahrain Wellness Resort 17 795-961 Banyan Tree Spa 17 845-000 Bellacura Beauty Lounge 17 697-950 Bella Cura 17 525-237 Beauty & Nails Salon 17 717-323 Beauty Spot 17 611-888 Bliss Spa 17 742-222 Bodyline Spa 17 793-932 Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Celebrity Salon 17 232-944 D.Done Salon 17 794-441 Dessange Spa 17 713-999 Diplomat Spa 17 525-237 Elie & Jean (Ritz Carlton) 17 580-885 Futoon Beauty & Fitness 17 777-994 Happy Hair Salon 17 712-075 Al Haramlik Beauty Centre 17 722 933 Joz Salon and Spa 17 369-133 La Fontaine Spa & Pilates 17 230-123 Lavida Ladies Saloon 17 259 055 Lovely Lolita 17 540-101 Nice Nails 17 795-101 78

| January 2012 | woman this month

Novel Beauty Salon 17 791-222 Palace Bride Saloon 17 742-210 Perfect Nails 17 484-333 Pineapple Spa 17 712-000 Princess Palace Salon 17 691-221 Regency Therapy 17 208-355 Ritz-Carlton 17 586-808 Sparadise Spa & Salon 17 313-131 Sheraton Hotel Spa 17 533-533 Tip Toes 17 744-175 Zoya Beauty Centre 17 740-800 Health and fitness centers Banyan Tree Spa Al Areen 17 845-000 Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Curves 17 691-496 Diplomat Hotel Spa 17 531-666 Dessange Health Club 17 713-999 Ez Fit Sportsplex 17 692-378 Equilibre 77 066-033 Fitness First 17 564-005 Kangoo Jumps 39 411-407 La Figure Aesthetic Center 17 785-153 Le Mirage Health Club 17 531-666 Life-Fit 33 001-261 Mövenpick Hotel Health Club 17 460-000 Pars Health Club 17 814-777 Profile Fitness Centre 17 727-766 Regency Health Club 17 208-355 RJ’s Health Club 17 727-230 Sheraton Fitness 17 524-570 Sofitel Thalassa Sea and Spa 17 636-363 Sporting Club, Ritz-Carlton 17 580-000 The Pole Workout 39 259-552 World Beat Fitness Center 17 612-576 Aerobics Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Regency Health Club 17 208-355 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576 Women’s Organizations American Women’s Ass. 17 685-882 Australasian Group 3 9101-348 Awali Ladies Association 17 678-947 Business Women’s Soc. 17 721-188 Hamad Town Ass. 3 9449-222 Indian Ladies Ass. 17 531-468 International Ladies Group 17 825-865 Madinat Hamad Society 3 9643-396 Pakistani Women’s Ass. 17 791-453 Young Ladies Society 17 262-237 Jewellery A La Mode (Seef Mall) 17 581-588 Al Zain Jewellery (Seef) 17 582-232 Ambassador Stores 17 225-513 Asia Jewellery (Sheraton) 17 535-344 Bahrain Jewellery Centre 17 582-444 Bansri Jewellery 17 229-457

Listings Bvlgari Chopard De Beers Dalil Jewellery Damas Jewellery Devji Jewellery Dior Boutique Kooheji Jewellery (seef) Swarovski Yaquby Stores Cafes and Coffee Shops A Piece of Cake Dar Al Bareh Café Al Bindaira Café Aroma Café Café La Ventana Café Lilou Café Vergnano Camille’s Sidewalk Café Caramel Casa Blu Costa Coffee (Adliya) Delifrance (Budaiya) Dolce Vita Restaurant & Coffe Shop Don Vito Dulce Café La Maison du café La Chocolate (Seef) Lilou Pâtisserie Little Caesar’s (Pizza) Friends Café Maggie’s Café Maya La Chocolaterie Med Café Motorox Café Skyalk Café Fashion and retail Accessorize ABS Agent Provocateur Aldo Accessories BCBG Max Azria Camaieu Celine Dior Gap H&M Karen Millen Mango Max Mara Michael Kors Next Nine West Promod Punt Roma Reiss Salvatore Ferragamo Top Shop

17 17 13 17 17 17 17 17 17 17

582-559 520-088 320-568 259-744 583-283 224-170 534-160 530-411 581-021 171-800

17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17

596-055 713-535 587-587 582-711 716-711 714-440 178-408 533-808 797-087 710-424 749-299 696-031

17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17

713-401 714-464 822-274 277-722 582-259 715-370 744-144 713-732 712-228 179-610 713-088 592-583 363-999

17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17

581-588 583-140 131-220 179-247 587-875 179-767 179-560 534-160 582-864 179-885 583-335 582-864 530-815 178-630 179-820 627-077 178-630 172-307 179-386 178-535 179-486

If you want to be included in these listings, please email editor@ womanthismonth.com

Social Butterfly

Bizladies Networking Reception

Bizladies held a networking reception at the Bizzare Lounge, Kempinski Grand Ixir Hotel, Bahrain City Centre. The guest speakers at the event were Tina Benjamin-Lea, plans manager Middle East, AEGIS & Commander Sarah Oakley, Royal Navy Pat, Leanne, Shawan, Sharon & Nancy

Rachel, Shantini, Clare, Hala & Andrea

Kaite & Susan

Annelise & Anita

Clare & Emma

Hadeel & Heather

Commander Sarah, Clare & Tina

woman this month | January 2012 |

79

WoMentality

Wendy Syndrome Hard-headed Woman

I

have been musing on the similarities between the book Peter Pan and Carl Gustav Jung’s philosophy of male irresponsibility.

“Peur Aetnus”, according to Jung, later called “Peter Pan Syndrome”, is based on a man’s lack of desire to grow up, mature and take responsibility for themselves. Some men, it seems, prefer to remain children in their own world.

According to Jung, many men dread the thought of being eternally bound to something — be that a woman, a job or even a mortgage. Jung states that some men see this as being “captured”, enslaved within their own life.

To me, however, labeling such feelings a “condition” or a “syndrome” merely gives men an out or an excuse and will probably contribute to their inability to take responsibility for themselves! If men can blame things on Peter Pan Syndrome, what do we women get?

I don’t want to be Wendy, who turns her back on Peter’s world and accepts that her fate is to grow old. “Wendy syndrome”, is too close to reality. It was once stated, “Little girls grow up to be ladies…Little boys grow up to be big boys.”

We forgive the men in our lives for staying young and immature. Sure, they go to work and come home, pay a few bills, but they enjoy themselves too. Toys, sessions with the boys, macho clubs, man caves and buddy BBQ’s.

And what do we women get to look forward to? Oh that’s right, organise the wedding and the catering, raise the kids, ensure they are picked up on time, drop them at football and rugby practice and basically be the mature adult for two people.

Well, I want something different! I want to be irresponsible too and have it philosophically sanctioned. I want to live the life of Peter and Tinkerbell. In my world, I’d leave Peter with the children and let him look

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| January 2012 | woman this month

after them, let him grow old and be mature, while I go and fight in Never Never Land, pit my strength against the pirates or at least go shopping with them. Growing up is overrated!

I remember having a pre-teen conversation with my mum. It was after she had found me attacking her make up box with the ferocity of a maddened clown. Wiping lip-stick from my cheeks and eye make up from my brow, she told me to stop being in such a hurry to grow up.I thought it was her that was crazy, not the young over painted clown looking back from the mirror at me.

Today, I wish I had stopped and listened, slowed the whole process down. Taken time to play more with my younger brother and find out what was so magical about those cardboard swords he loved.

Now that I have grown up, I just want to go back. What’s so grand about maturity; pain, responsibility, heartache and solitude? Few of us truly get the jackpot prize of happiness ever after.

I want to be adventurous, to fly and escape the monotony of everyday life. Why is there no JM Barrie for us women!

I’m not looking to be Cat Woman, Aqua Girl or Wonder Woman, I just want a to be a regular woman, with the ability to retreat into my own Never Never fantasy land every now and then, should I feel the need.

I’m fed up of the double standards. Ageing women are made to dread their ageing process thanks to the stigmas attached to biological clocks, menopause and wrinkles. Whereas men get a golden ticket to do completely bizarre, selfish and ridiculous things and blame it on a “midlife crisis”.

Well, I say enough of this. Anything they can do, we can do too. Let a few of us go out and spend the savings on a Ferrari, wear leather trousers and trade our husbands in for younger models and we’ll see how they feel after that!